Rogel Cancer Center Michigan Medicine
RESEARCH FUNDED BY SKY FOUNDATION, INC.
Title of Research: Defining the role of ER-mitochondrial dynamics in pancreatic tumorigenesis
Project Description: Most pancreatic cancers begin in acinar cells, the cells
responsible for producing digestive enzymes. When these cells are damaged, such as
by inflammation, they may undergo a protective transformation known as acinar-to
ductal metaplasia (ADM). ADM is considered the first step in the development of
pancreatic cancer, and it requires a substantial amount of energy. This energy is
generated by mitochondria, which are the cell’s main source of power. Beyond producing
energy, mitochondria interact with other cell structures, such as the endoplasmic
reticulum (ER), which helps regulate their shape and function. Research has shown that
pancreatic cancer cells rely on smaller, shorter mitochondria to survive, and we believe
that the same change may be necessary for healthy cells to start turning malignant.
Additionally, we suspect that interactions between mitochondria and the ER play a
crucial role in this early transformation. Through this project, we aim to identify early
warning signs of pancreatic cancer and explore new ways to prevent healthy cells from
becoming malignant.
Bio: Mariana earned both her Master’s and Doctoral degrees at the
University of São Paulo in Brazil. As a Fulbright Doctoral Dissertation Research Award
grantee, she also conducted part of her research at the University of Kansas Medical
Center. During her PhD studies, Mariana investigated the role of dual-specificity
phosphatases in pancreatic cancer. Currently, her research is focused on exploring the
involvement of mitochondrial dynamics in the initiation of pancreatic cancer. Deeply
passionate about pancreatic cancer research, Mariana is driven by a commitment to
improving the lives of patients affected by this disease.