Understanding how ERK contributes to KRAS-driven pancreatic cancer
Official title: Mechanistic Basis for ERK in driving KRAS-dependent pancreatic cancer
Funded at Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences · NIH-11212943 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific pathway in cells affects the growth of pancreatic cancer with KRAS gene mutations, and it aims to find new ways to make treatments work better for patients dealing with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00CA276700-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11212943 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who have mutations in the KRAS gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pancreatic cancer that does not involve KRAS mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the ERK signaling pathway in the growth of pancreatic cancer cells that have mutations in the KRAS gene. By analyzing how ERK influences cancer cell behavior, the study aims to identify new strategies to overcome resistance to existing KRAS-targeted therapies. The approach includes genetic analyses and testing of potential inhibitors to improve treatment outcomes for patients with KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer. Patients may be involved in trials that explore these new therapeutic options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting the KRAS pathway can lead to significant tumor shrinkage, although challenges remain in overcoming resistance, indicating both potential and the need for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Klomp, Jennifer E — Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Klomp, Jennifer E
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.