Understanding how pancreatic cancer cells adapt to low-nutrient environments

Defining metabolic adaptations within the PDAC "arid" tumor microenvironment

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11072067

This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells manage to survive in tough, low-nutrient conditions, which are often found in tumors, to help find new ways to treat patients with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072067 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the unique challenges faced by pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells in nutrient-poor environments, which are common in tumors. By creating laboratory conditions that mimic these 'arid' tumor microenvironments, researchers aim to uncover how cancer cells survive and resist treatment. The study employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR screening, to identify specific genes that are crucial for the survival of these cells under low-nutrient conditions. The ultimate goal is to find new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with PDAC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose pancreatic cancer is not characterized by nutrient-poor conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that specifically target the resilient cancer cells in pancreatic tumors, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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 →

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.