Molecular triggers for neuropathy and neural invasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (P07)

• Subject Area: Gastroenterology
• Term: from 2018 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 329628492

Neural invasion (NI) is frequent and clinically overwhelming problem in human pancreatic cancer, which associates with markedly worsened overall survival and severe pain in patients. NI has not yet been sufficiently modelled in experimental research. We developed and characterised novel mouse models and organoid culture setups of NI in PDAC. Using these innovative tools, we will explore the molecules that trigger NI in mouse PDAC and will delve deeper into the molecular mechanisms that give rise to NI. Furthermore, we will generate faster and more human-like, neuro-invasive models with the ultimate goal of targeting NI in human PDAC.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1321: Modelling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Ihsan Ekin Demir, since 1/2019