Understanding the role of specific cells in pancreatic cancer
Official title: Origin, diversification and function of pancreatic cancer associated fibroblasts
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11129972 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain cells called cancer-associated fibroblasts help pancreatic cancer grow and respond to treatments, which could lead to new ways to fight this tough disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,999 |
| NIH project number | 4R00CA263005-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129972 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those at high risk for developing this type of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without pancreatic cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the origin and function of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly lethal form of cancer. By using genetically engineered mouse models, the study aims to trace the lineage of these fibroblasts and understand their role in tumor progression and response to treatment. The research focuses on the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is crucial during fetal development and is reactivated in pancreatic tumors, to identify how CAFs contribute to cancer development. Patients may benefit from insights gained about CAFs that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for pancreatic cancer by targeting the mechanisms involving cancer-associated fibroblasts.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of fibroblasts in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Lu — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Han, Lu
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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.