mTOR and its regulation by microRNAs . Influence on pancreatic cancer and diabetes mellitus

• Applicant: Dr. Theodoros Kolokotronis
• Subject Area: General and Visceral Surgery
• Term: from 2017 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 386944891

Aim of the present, prospective, observational study is to investigatethe role of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) on resectablepancreatic cancer (PDAC) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Primary endpoint is, whether the underlying disease (PDAC) and the type ofsurgical resection (pp-Whipple vs. left pancreatectomy) affect theexpression of mTORC1 and 2. Furthermore, a clinical correlationbetween diabetes and mTOR expression will be investigated, as wellas the prognosis in PDAC patients. Micro- RNAs (miRNA) thatregulate mTOR expresssion, as well as its downstream targets will bealso analyzed with the aim to identify potential prognostic markers forpatients with PDAC subjected to surgery.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants