Understanding how gut bacteria affect immune cells in pancreatic cancer spread to the liver

Investigating the MAIT cell- Microbiome Relationship in Pancreatic Cancer Liver Metastasis

NIH-funded research Wayne State University · NIH-11080192

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect a type of immune cell called MAIT cells, especially in people with pancreatic cancer that has spread to the liver, to find new ways to boost the body's ability to fight the cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWayne State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Detroit, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080192 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and MAIT cells, a type of immune cell, in the context of pancreatic cancer that has spread to the liver. The study aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria can influence the immune response against tumors in the liver. By examining how gut-derived antigens interact with MAIT cells, the researchers hope to find ways to enhance anti-tumor immunity. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with pancreatic cancer liver metastasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who have liver metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with pancreatic cancer that has not metastasized to the liver may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance the body's immune response against pancreatic cancer that has spread to the liver.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that modulating the gut microbiome can positively impact anti-tumor immunity in animal models, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Detroit, 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.