Using ceramide-rich platforms to improve cancer treatment with gemcitabine

Ceramide-Rich Platforms Functionalize Gemcitabine Uptake

['FUNDING_R01'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11000305

This study is looking at how a special enzyme in blood vessel cells can help make cancer treatments like gemcitabine work better, with the goal of improving outcomes for patients with different types of cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11000305 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how activating a specific enzyme called acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) in tumor blood vessel cells can enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments like gemcitabine. By understanding the role of ceramide-rich platforms formed by ASMase activation, the study aims to improve the response of tumors to chemotherapy and radiation. The approach involves manipulating the timing of anti-angiogenic drugs to maximize their impact on tumor cells, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes for patients with various cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that are being treated with gemcitabine or other chemotherapies, particularly those with metastatic sarcoma.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing treatment for cancer or those with tumors that do not respond to gemcitabine may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer therapies that improve patient survival and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that manipulating ASMase activity can enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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 →

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.