Understanding how gut cells change to cause neuroendocrine tumors
The role of Hedgehog and enteric neural crest cell reprogramming in neuroendocrine differentiation
This research aims to understand how certain cells in the gut transform into neuroendocrine tumors, which are a type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11309461 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We want to learn more about gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs), which are often hard to understand. Our work focuses on special cells in the gut called enteric neural crest-derived cells (ENCCs) and how they might be involved in these tumors. We are looking at how a specific genetic change (loss of the Men1 gene) and a cell communication pathway (Hedgehog signaling) cause these ENCCs to change and become cancerous. By using advanced techniques with mouse models and cell studies, we hope to uncover the earliest steps in how these tumors form.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients who may develop or are living with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how GEP-NETs start, potentially opening doors for new ways to prevent or treat them.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds on recent findings that first demonstrated the involvement of specific gut cells in neuroendocrine tumor development, suggesting a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duan, Suzann — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Duan, Suzann
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 below.