The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center received a $616,495 Project Grant from the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Biology Research program (CFDA 93.396) to conduct research on the role of sulfatide metabolism in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer precursor lesions. The key objectives are to: 1) define the biological functions of sulfatide in pancreatic cancer precursor lesions, 2) test whether inhibiting sulfatide metabolism is a viable cancer interception strategy, and 3) evaluate the use of mass spectrometry imaging to identify malignant tissue during pancreatic cancer surgery. This 5-year research project, starting on March 1, 2025, will utilize patient-derived organoids and mouse models to investigate the effects of altering sulfatide synthesis on mitochondrial function, tumor progression, and the tumor microenvironment. The findings may lead to new cancer interception approaches and improved intraoperative diagnostic techniques for pancreatic cancer.
Generated 3/18/25, 4:01 AM