Ways to boost MEK and autophagy-targeted treatment for pancreatic cancer
Targeting cell regulatory states to complement MEK/autophagy inhibition in pancreatic cancer
Researchers are looking for methods to help MEK plus autophagy-blocking treatments work better for people with pancreatic cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251221 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at why pancreatic cancers that initially respond to MEK plus autophagy-blocking drugs later stop responding, focusing on different cancer cell states and the tumor’s surrounding tissue. Researchers will analyze tumor samples, laboratory models, and past patient responses to identify the programs that allow cancer cells to survive these treatments. They plan to test additional targets that could be combined with MEK/autophagy therapy to prevent or delay resistance. If those targets look promising, the findings could lead to new combination trials you might be eligible to join in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), particularly tumors driven by KRAS mutations or who are candidates for MEK/autophagy-targeting trials, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than PDAC or those not eligible for combination therapy trials are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to combination therapies that keep pancreatic tumors controlled longer and help more patients respond.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical lab studies and individual case reports have shown tumor shrinkage with MEK plus autophagy inhibition, but early clinical trials worked only in a subset of patients and resistance usually develops quickly.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Olive, Kenneth P. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Olive, Kenneth P.
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 below.