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Virtual review of cancer clinical trial treatment options quicker than conventional method

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center developed a virtual review method that reduces the time needed to assess a cancer patient's tumor profile and suitability for clinical trials from 14 to 4 days. The method also increased the number of cases that could be assessed, with over 2,000 clinical trials evaluated.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateOct 9, 2019

Response rate to albumin-bound paclitaxel plus gemcitabine plus cisplatin treatment among patients with advanced pancreatic cancer: A phase 1b/2 pilot clinical trial

A phase 1b/2 clinical trial found that adding cisplatin to a standard-of-care regimen resulted in 71% tumor shrinkage and increased survival beyond one year. The treatment showed encouraging results, with 64% of patients alive after one year and 40% alive after two years.

Compound may play role in halting panceatic cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that the compound 4-HAP can reduce metastatic tumor formation in mouse models of human pancreatic cancer. By stiffening cells and overwhelming their ability to invade nearby tissue, 4-HAP may help halt the progression of disease-like behavior in pancreatic cancer cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 18, 2019

New guideline clarifies role of radiation therapy in pancreatic cancer treatment

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released a new clinical guideline recommending the use of radiation therapy in pre-surgical, post-surgical, definitive and palliative settings. The guideline emphasizes a patient-centered approach integrating patients' values and preferences into treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateSep 4, 2019

Revealing the molecular engine that drives pancreatic cancer provides ways to turn it off

A team of researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center has identified a chain of molecules critical for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) growth and survival. Inhibiting this 'Yap' biological network may effectively regress early-stage PDAC, and pairing it with other drugs could halt more advanced stage tumors.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 22, 2019

Discovery of how cells override genetic changes

Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute have discovered a way for cells to override genetic changes, potentially leading to more effective pancreatic cancer treatment. The study found that introducing PTF1A into normal cells prevented the formation of cancer cells and even reversed early-stage cancer cells back to healthy pancreas cells.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 15, 2019

Deciphering pancreatic cancer's invade and evade tactics

Two known gene mutations, KRAS and TP53, induce pathways that enhance pancreatic cancer's ability to invade tissues and evade the immune system. Mutations in these genes are closely linked to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a type of pancreatic cancer with a low five-year survival rate.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2019

High blood sugar increases pancreatic cancer rate

A nationwide study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that high blood sugar levels significantly increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that early detection of hyperglycemia and lifestyle modifications to improve glucose profiles may help lower this risk.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 24, 2019

Machine learning platform guides pancreatic cyst management in patients

Researchers created a comprehensive test using machine learning algorithms to better guide patient management for pancreatic cysts, a precursor of pancreatic cancer. The test, called CompCyst, outperformed the current standard-of-care in an international study, avoiding surgery in 60% of patients who underwent unnecessary removal.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 17, 2019

Reprogramming pancreatic cancer

Researchers discover a novel compound that activates CD11b receptors on white blood cells, promoting an anti-tumor immune response and overcoming resistance to immunotherapies. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for the third deadliest cancer in the US.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 3, 2019