#United States #pancreatic cancer #North Chicago #Rosalind Franklin #Research Grant

Rosalind Franklin University Receives NCI Grant for Research

Rosalind Franklin University has made significant strides in fighting pancreatic cancer after Dr. Paige Arneson-Wissink, an assistant professor in biochemistry and molecular biology, was awarded a $747,000 grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This three-year project aims to explore cachexia in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), an aggressive cancer variant known for its lethality.

Cachexia is a severe metabolic condition wherein the body involuntarily breaks down its muscle and fat stores, leading to debilitating consequences for patients. This condition is particularly critical, as it is responsible for approximately 20%–25% of all cancer-related deaths. Patients suffering from cachexia face functional impairments that hinder treatment options and significantly degrade their quality of life. Nutritional supplements have proven inadequate in addressing tissue loss, highlighting the urgent need for effective therapies.

Dr. Arneson-Wissink, whose work merges advanced epigenetic technologies with a pioneering preclinical model for PDAC survivorship, aims to identify the lasting epigenetic changes following tumor clearance. She states, "Our project is innovative in its use of advanced epigenetic techniques combined with a novel preclinical model of PDAC survivorship. These tools will help us uncover critical epigenetic reprogramming events that worsen muscle vulnerability in nutritional stress scenarios."

Pancreatic cancer is an increasing global health concern. Current statistics indicate that PDAC accounts for nearly 90% of all pancreatic cancer cases, with the incidence climbing yearly. Roughly 495,000 to 510,000 new cases are diagnosed globally each year, and projections suggest that pancreatic cancer will soon be the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the U.S., particularly affecting individuals aged 65 and older.

Recent findings from Dr. Arneson-Wissink's research indicate that systemic inflammation in PDAC negatively affects the liver's ability to utilize ketogenic metabolism effectively during periods of food scarcity. These findings suggest that inhibiting hepatic STAT3, a crucial liver signaling protein, could restore the liver’s capacity for fatty acid oxidation and potentially mitigate muscle wastage.

Dr. Janice Urban, RFU's Interim Executive Vice President for Research, expressed approval of the recognition from the NCI, stating, "We are thrilled to see Dr. Arneson-Wissink's pioneering work gain such acknowledgment from the NCI. Her research aims to enhance the quality of life from diagnosis through survivorship by deepening our understanding of the metabolic interactions driving cancer-associated cachexia."

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is dedicated to the training of healthcare professionals and the advancement of medical knowledge aimed at improving wellness. Established in Chicago in 1912, the university honors the legacy of Dr. Rosalind Franklin and is recognized for its contributions to research in various fields, including neuroscience, inherited disorders, and metabolic diseases. The institution comprises several schools, including the Chicago Medical School and the College of Health Professions, among others. More information can be found at www.rosalindfranklin.edu.