Understanding how immune cells and fibroblasts interact to improve treatment for pancreatic cancer

Disrupting MDSC-fibroblast interactions to overcome chemoimmunotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-10944920

This study is looking at how certain immune cells and supporting cells in pancreatic cancer work together to make treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy less effective, with the hope of finding new ways to improve these treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-10944920 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between specific immune cells and fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer, which contribute to resistance against chemotherapy and immunotherapy. By examining the signaling pathways involved, the study aims to uncover how these interactions promote tumor growth and hinder effective treatment. The approach includes analyzing tumor samples and utilizing advanced techniques to disrupt these harmful interactions, potentially leading to more effective therapies for patients. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments by targeting the mechanisms that allow tumors to evade therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are undergoing or considering chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer, potentially increasing survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune cell interactions in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, 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.