Understanding how pancreatic cancer spreads through lymph nodes

Mechanisms of Lymphatic Metastasis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11065840

This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer spreads to lymph nodes and how certain immune cells there might help the cancer survive, with the goal of finding ways to boost the body's natural defenses against the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11065840 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma spreads to lymph nodes, which are crucial for immune responses against tumors. The study focuses on the role of regulatory T cells in the lymph nodes and how they may suppress the immune response to cancer cells. By using murine cancer models, the researchers aim to identify intrinsic factors within lymph nodes that affect tumor cell survival and immune interactions. This could lead to new insights into how to enhance anti-tumor immunity in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with lymphatic involvement.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those without lymphatic metastasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating lymphatic metastasis in pancreatic cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune interactions in lymph nodes can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 cancer antigens
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.