Understanding how inflammation affects muscle loss in cancer patients

NF-kB Regulation of the Muscle Microenvironment in Cancer Cachexia

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10767932

This study is looking at how a protein called NF-kB affects inflammation in the muscles of cancer patients who are losing weight and muscle strength, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve their health and quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10767932 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of NF-kB, a protein complex, in regulating inflammation within the muscle microenvironment of cancer patients suffering from cachexia, a condition characterized by severe weight loss and muscle wasting. By examining how tumor factors influence muscle stem cells and lead to inflammation, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic targets to combat cachexia. The approach involves analyzing the interactions between muscle cells and immune cells to understand the underlying mechanisms of muscle atrophy. Patients may benefit from potential new treatments that could improve their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients experiencing cachexia, particularly those with pancreatic cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cancer or are not experiencing cachexia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies for cachexia, significantly improving the health and survival of cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting inflammation to mitigate muscle loss in cachexia, suggesting that this approach could yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.