Understanding how low oxygen levels affect pancreatic cancer behavior

Investigating hypoxia as a determinant of malignant fates in pancreas cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11041175

This study is looking at how low oxygen levels in pancreatic tumors might make some cancer cells tougher and resistant to treatment, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients with pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11041175 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of low oxygen levels, known as hypoxia, in the aggressive behavior of pancreatic cancer cells. By examining how these conditions influence the molecular diversity of cancer cells within tumors, the study aims to uncover why some cancer cells become resistant to standard chemotherapy. The researchers will analyze gene expression and metabolic adaptations in cancer cells located in hypoxic regions of tumors, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. This work is crucial as it seeks to improve treatment outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer, a disease that has seen little advancement in effective therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, particularly those experiencing aggressive disease progression.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with early-stage pancreatic cancer that has not progressed may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the unique characteristics of cancer cells in hypoxic environments can lead to breakthroughs in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, cancer cell, cancer metastasis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.