Understanding Microbes in Pancreatic Cancer and Its Spread

Interrogating the Spatial and Functional Relevance of Microbes in Pancreatic Cancer and Metastasis

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-11158957

This project explores how tiny living organisms, called microbes, are involved in pancreatic cancer and its spread to other parts of the body.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11158957 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Pancreatic cancer is a very aggressive disease, often spreading to the liver early on. We know that microbes are present in pancreatic tumors and can influence how the disease progresses and how immune cells behave. This work aims to map out exactly where these microbes are located within tumors and how they function, both in the original tumor and in areas where cancer might spread. By understanding these microbial communities, we hope to find new ways to stop cancer growth and prevent its spread.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), especially those with metastatic disease, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this research.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those without pancreatic cancer would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for treating pancreatic cancer by targeting the microbes involved in its development and spread.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that microbes are present in pancreatic cancer and can influence outcomes, suggesting a promising area for further investigation.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.