Understanding how to target pancreatic cancer by blocking a specific protein's signaling
Official title: Metabolic flux analysis and PDX models to understand therapeutic vulnerabilities following inhibition of Ref-1 redox signaling in pancreatic cancer
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11043507 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Ref-1 in pancreatic cancer to see if blocking it can help stop the cancer from growing, and they're testing new drug combinations to find treatments that work better for patients while being gentle on healthy cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $75,358 |
| NIH project number | 3R01CA282478-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043507 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-pancreatic cancers or those who are not eligible for experimental therapies may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called Ref-1 in pancreatic cancer, which is known for being particularly hard to treat. The team will explore how inhibiting this protein can disrupt the cancer's metabolism and growth, using advanced models that mimic human tumors. By testing new drug combinations, they aim to find effective treatments that can selectively kill cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells. Patients may be screened for their sensitivity to these treatments, which could lead to more personalized therapy options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches targeting redox signaling in cancer, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Mark R. — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Mark R.
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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.