Understanding how liver metabolism affects muscle loss in pancreatic cancer patients
Elucidating the role of hepatic ketogenesis in pancreatic cancer cachexia and recovery
This study is looking at how liver function affects weight loss and muscle wasting in people with pancreatic cancer, hoping to find new ways to help improve their health and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11021041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of liver metabolism in the development of cachexia, a condition affecting many patients with pancreatic cancer that leads to severe muscle loss. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which inflammation impacts the liver's ability to utilize fat for energy, which is crucial for preventing muscle wasting. By exploring the relationship between liver function and cachexia, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The approach includes both mechanistic studies and assessments of how these findings can be translated into clinical settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with pancreatic cancer who are not experiencing cachexia or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent muscle loss in pancreatic cancer patients, improving their quality of life and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cachexia mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on liver metabolism in pancreatic cancer is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arneson-Wissink, Paige C — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Arneson-Wissink, Paige C
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.