Understanding how the environment affects weight loss in pancreatic cancer patients
The role of the macroenvironment in pancreatic cancer-induced cachexia
This study is looking into why some cancer patients, especially those with pancreatic cancer, experience severe weight loss and aims to find new ways to help them feel better and maintain their weight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898562 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the mechanisms behind cachexia, a severe weight loss condition affecting many cancer patients, particularly those with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The project investigates how the tumor's environment influences weight loss and overall health, focusing on specific biological pathways involved in this process. By examining the NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3 signaling axis, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from cachexia. The findings could lead to new strategies for managing weight loss in cancer patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing significant weight loss.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not experiencing cachexia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cachexia, enhancing the quality of life and survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cachexia in cancer patients, but this specific approach focusing on the macroenvironment is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guttridge, Denis C — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Guttridge, Denis C
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 below.