Understanding how certain cancer cells respond to new therapies in pancreatic cancer

Exploring the molecular mechanisms controlling CDK7i sensitivity in pancreas cancer

NIH-funded research Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10997000

This study is looking at why some pancreatic cancer cells respond better to a specific treatment and how a protein called SIRT6 affects this response, with the goal of finding better treatment options for patients with a tough type of pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997000 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that make some pancreatic cancer cells more sensitive to a specific type of therapy targeting CDK7. The study focuses on a subtype of pancreatic cancer known as basal pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which has a poorer prognosis. Researchers will explore how a protein called SIRT6 influences the stability of another protein, ATF4, and how this interaction affects the cancer cells' response to treatment. By using mouse models that closely mimic human pancreatic cancer, the research aims to identify effective treatment strategies for patients with this aggressive cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with basal pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of pancreatic cancer or those who are not diagnosed with pancreatic cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer, particularly those with the basal subtype.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar molecular pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.