NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how cancer cell communication affects pancreatic cancer progression

Official title: Unraveling the functional contribution of extracellular vesicles in pancreatic cancer

Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10571036 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at tiny particles released by cancer cells to see how they help pancreatic cancer grow and spread, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this tough disease.

More Pancreatic Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startDecember 17, 2024
Project endNovember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$192,240
NIH project number1K22CA276360-01
Project IDNIH-10571036 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are seeking new treatment options.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer or those not diagnosed with pancreatic cancer may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by cancer cells in the progression of pancreatic cancer. By using genetically engineered mouse models, the study aims to track how these vesicles influence the tumor microenvironment and contribute to cancer initiation and metastasis. The research will focus on the mechanisms of EV release and their effects on surrounding tissues, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating pancreatic cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively target pancreatic cancer by disrupting the communication between cancer cells and their environment.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting extracellular vesicles in other cancer types, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for pancreatic cancer.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mcandrews, Kathleen — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Mcandrews, Kathleen

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.