Understanding the role of specific cells in pancreatic cancer development
Official title: Origins and functions of pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts
Funded at Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-11056155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the pancreas, called cancer-associated fibroblasts, develop and help pancreatic cancer grow, with the hope of finding new ways to treat patients with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $375,586 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA250917-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056155 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 origins and functions of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a type of pancreatic cancer. By utilizing a novel mouse model, the study aims to trace the differentiation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) into CAFs and understand their roles in the tumor microenvironment. The research focuses on how these cells contribute to tumor growth and inflammation, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with PDAC. The findings may help clarify the complex interactions between different cell types within the tumor.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapies that target the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the tumor microenvironment in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for pancreatic cancer as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sherman, Mara H. — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Sherman, Mara H.
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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.