Deciphering and targeting acinar-to-ductal metaplasia – the earliest step in pancreatic carcinogenesis (P03)

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

Oncogenic induction of acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM) represents a central reprogramming and priming process in early pancreatic carcinogenesis. We will resolve newly discovered metabolic and signalling alterations that drive ADM on the single cell level. In parallel, we will establish humanized acinar organoids using pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC). We aim to characterize paracrine signalling between acini by combining cell co-culture systems with mass spectrometry-based proteomics. A deeper understanding of mouse and humanized ADM models will allow the development of molecular strategies to block ADM and subsequent pancreatic cancer development in high risk groups.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1321: Modelling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Matthias Meier; Professor Dr. Roland M. Schmid