Understanding how pancreatic cancer cells interact with their environment to improve treatment responses

Stromal modulation of pancreatic cancer malignant cell state and therapeutic sensitivity

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10918120

This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells work with nearby cells to grow and resist treatment, and it's for people with pancreatic cancer who want to know how we might improve therapies to help them better.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918120 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between pancreatic cancer cells and the surrounding tumor microenvironment, particularly focusing on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). By utilizing advanced models, including genetically engineered mouse models and patient-derived organoids, the team aims to uncover how these interactions influence cancer progression and treatment resistance. The goal is to identify ways to modify these interactions to enhance the effectiveness of therapies for pancreatic cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) who are undergoing treatment or have recently completed treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who are not diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer, potentially increasing survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor microenvironments in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for pancreatic cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Cancers
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.