Understanding how pancreatic cancer cells move and spread
Official title: Project 1: Defining Mechanisms of MICAL-dependent Pancreatic Cancer Cell Migration
Funded at San Diego State University · NIH-10931511 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells move and spread in the body, focusing on specific genes that might help us find better treatments, so we can improve care for patients with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $141,943 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA285117-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931511 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma, particularly those from African American and Hispanic backgrounds who are disproportionately affected by the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without a diagnosis of pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms behind the movement and spread of pancreatic cancer cells, particularly focusing on how certain genes influence these processes. By studying the differences between cancerous and normal pancreatic cells, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to more effective treatments. The project combines expertise in cancer biology with advanced modeling of cellular behavior to uncover insights that could improve patient outcomes. The findings may help in developing strategies to prevent the aggressive spread of pancreatic cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer cell migration and targeting specific genes, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego State University
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Katira, Parag — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Katira, Parag
Related research
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Targeting how platelets and pancreatic cancer talk to each other
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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.