The University of Pittsburgh received a $622,548 Project Grant award from the National Cancer Institute (CFDA 93.396 - Cancer Biology Research) to conduct research on the role of the peripheral nervous system in pancreatic cancer progression. The key objectives are to:
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Examine how sensory nerves impact immune cell functions and tumor growth through the expression of immune checkpoint proteins within the tumor microenvironment.
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Evaluate changes in the innervation of lymph nodes draining the tumor, and determine if the lymph node innervating nerves could be a therapeutic target and/or prognostic biomarker.
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Assess whether combining chemotherapy or checkpoint therapy with interventions targeting peripheral nerves can improve therapeutic efficacy against pancreatic cancer.
This 5-year research project aims to provide critical insights into novel neuro-immune pathways that could lead to improved treatments for pancreatic cancer, which is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
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