Understanding how gut bacteria affect immune cells in pancreatic cancer spread to the liver
Official title: Investigating the MAIT cell- Microbiome Relationship in Pancreatic Cancer Liver Metastasis
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11080192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | April 29, 2024 |
| Project end | April 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,763 |
| NIH project number | 5F30CA291094-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080192 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 liver metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pancreatic cancer that has not metastasized to the liver may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toor, Jugmohit — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Toor, Jugmohit
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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.