Using special polymers to reduce pancreatic cancer spread
Official title: Utilizing nucleic acid scavengers to elucidate how DNA/RNA-containing DAMPs promote pancreatic cancer metastasis and to mitigate such processes
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11089609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with pancreatic cancer by using special polymers that can grab onto harmful molecules released during treatment, which might help stop cancer cells from spreading and make the treatment work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $638,056 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA283740-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing chemotherapy or surgery for pancreatic cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pancreatic cancer who are not receiving chemotherapy or surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing nucleic acid binding polymers that can capture and neutralize harmful molecules released during pancreatic cancer treatment. These molecules, known as Damage Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs), can promote cancer cell migration and metastasis. By administering these polymers alongside chemotherapy or surgery, the goal is to limit the cancer cells' ability to spread and improve treatment outcomes. The research builds on previous findings that suggest controlling inflammation can help manage cancer progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer by reducing the spread of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to mitigate cancer metastasis, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sullenger, Bruce Alan — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Sullenger, Bruce Alan
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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.