Retinoids in Pancreatic Cancer. [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Andrew Biankin (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Minoti Apte

Brief description Pancreatic Cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in men and women in Western societies. Nothing, apart from surgery in a small proportion of individuals gives any hope. The identification of novel treatment strategies in the modern era necessitates a rational scientific approach, where an understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the evolution of cancer underpins the development of such strategies in an efficient manner. Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A, and have been used extremely successfully in the treatment of some leukaemias. Unfortunately, retinoids have not worked as well in other cancers. We have identified an important role for abnormal retinoid function in the evolution of pancreatic cancer, which may be responsible for the lack of effective response to retinoid treatment. This project focuses on identifying if these abnormalities in retinoid function can be reversed with adding specific pharmaceuticals so that retinoid based therapies will be effective in pancreatic cancer.

Funding Amount $AUD 543,301.76

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant