Exploring genetic factors linked to cancer cachexia in pancreatic cancer patients

Association of Genomic Polymorphisms With Cancer Cachexia in Subjects With Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NCT05376592

This study is trying to see if certain genetic factors are linked to weight loss and muscle wasting in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWake Forest University Health Sciences (other)
Locations2 sites (Charlotte, North Carolina and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05376592 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the association between genomic polymorphisms and cancer cachexia in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. It will involve a cohort of 100 patients who are either locally advanced unresectable or metastatic, with a focus on identifying biomarkers that contribute to cachexia, a significant complication affecting prognosis. Specimens such as blood or buccal swabs will be collected during clinical visits and analyzed for genetic variations and clinical factors. The study will also evaluate confounding factors like disease stage and treatment history to better understand their impact on cachexia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with histologically confirmed locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not meet the inclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of cancer cachexia in pancreatic cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on cancer cachexia exist, this specific focus on genomic polymorphisms in pancreatic cancer is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Subject must meet all of the following applicable inclusion criteria to participate in this study:

* Written informed consent and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information by the subject in accordance with the practices of the Levine Cancer Institute and Atrium Health. NOTE: HIPAA authorization will be included in the informed consent.
* Male or female patients age ≥ 18 years at the time of consent
* Histological or cytological confirmation of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, with a diagnosis of locally advanced unresectable PDAC (LAPC) or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. LAPC is defined as per NCCN 16. Note: Subject can be enrolled at any time during their cancer course following histologic diagnosis.
* Able to provide a blood or buccal sample.

Exclusion Criteria:

* None

Where this trial is running

Charlotte, North Carolina and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pancreas Adenocarcinoma, Cachexia, Cancer Cachexia, Wasting Syndrome, Pancreatic Cancer

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.