Understanding how the environment around pancreatic cancer tumors affects their growth

Stromal and vascular inputs into pancreatic cancer tumor neighborhoods

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11060611

This study is looking at how the environment around pancreatic cancer tumors, including blood vessels and certain cells, affects their growth, with the hope of finding new ways to treat patients with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060611 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), focusing on how the surrounding blood vessels and cancer-associated fibroblasts contribute to tumor growth. By analyzing human data and mouse models, the study aims to identify specific characteristics of the TME that could be targeted for therapy. The researchers believe that understanding the differences in vascularity and lipid supply in tumors can lead to more effective treatments for patients with PDAC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with varying tumor vascularity.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose pancreatic cancer has already progressed to advanced stages may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the tumor microenvironment can lead to improved treatment outcomes, suggesting potential success for this innovative approach.

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.
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.