Understanding how PHF2 affects pancreatic cancer types and growth
Official title: Epigenetic regulation of pancreatic cancer subtype identity and tumorigenesis by PHF2
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10884412 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PHF2 affects pancreatic cancer cells, with the hope that understanding its role can help create better treatments tailored to different types of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $360,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA272876-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884412 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with Classical subtype characteristics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-pancreatic cancers or those with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of PHF2, a histone demethylase, in determining the identity of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. By studying patient-derived cancer cells and genetically engineered mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how PHF2 influences the three-dimensional structure of chromatin, which in turn affects tumor growth and patient outcomes. The study employs advanced techniques such as chromatin mapping and spatial transcriptomics to explore these mechanisms. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more targeted therapies based on their specific cancer subtype.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments tailored to the specific subtype of pancreatic cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cancer subtypes and their treatment, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liss, Andrew — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Liss, Andrew
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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.