Tumor protein could hold key to pancreatic cancer survival
Researchers identified PAK1 as a key player in aggressive tumor growth, fibrosis, and chemotherapy resistance. Targeting PAK1 may increase survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer
Articles tagged with Pancreatic Cancer
Discovery of a new gene critical in the development of lung and pancreatic cancers
A team of researchers at CIMA University has identified a new gene, FOSL1, which is critical in the development of lung and pancreatic cancers. Inhibiting this gene has been shown to drastically reduce tumor size in various experimental models.
Death rates from cancer will fall faster in men than in women in Europe in 2017
Death rates from cancer are expected to decline faster in men than in women in Europe in 2017, with men predicted to fall by over 8% and women by around 4%. Lung cancer death rates will rise in women, but overall, fewer women than men will die from cancer.
Role of rogue protein PAK4 confirmed in pancreatic cancer cells
A new study confirms PAK4's role in enabling pancreatic cancer cells to grow and spread, highlighting potential new targets for therapy. Researchers found a close relationship between PAK4 and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathway, which could lead to combination therapies targeting both.
Limited evidence that styrene causes cancer
A registry study of over 72,000 styrene-exposed employees found no increased incidence of common cancers such as oesophagus or lung cancer. However, a possible increased risk of myeloid leukaemia and nasal cancer was detected, highlighting the need for further investigation.
Scientists identify aggressive pancreatic cancer cells and their vulnerability
Researchers identified a gatekeeper protein SMARCB1 that prevents aggressive pancreatic cancer cells from transitioning into a resistant type. Depletion of SMARCB1 leads to mesenchymal status, a mobile and invasive cell state, making these cells vulnerable to therapies targeting proteostasis.
Sentinels in the blood: A new diagnostic for pancreatic cancer
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new diagnostic method for detecting pancreatic cancer early in its development by identifying extracellular vesicles with the surface protein EphA2. This technique shows promise for rapid and sensitive detection of various diseases based on unique EV signatures.
Diabetes or its rapid deterioration can be an early warning sign for pancreatic cancer
Research found that patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, particularly within the first year. The study's findings suggest a link between rapid deterioration in diabetes and early detection of pancreatic cancer.
Penn researchers help unravel mysteries of pancreatic cancer's resistance to standard therapies
Blocking inflammation after radiation therapy led to improved survival in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer. The study found that a form of inflammation triggered by the tumor in response to treatment helps keep tumor cells alive, and that blocking this inflammation can slow tumor growth and prolong survival.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 24, 2017
Study establishes new standard of care for pancreatic cancer patients
A new standard of care for pancreatic cancer patients has been established with a combination chemotherapy treatment, doubling five-year survival rates. The treatment, combining gemcitabine and capecitabine, was found to be effective in increasing patient survival by 29% compared to single-drug therapy.
New approach improves five-year survival for pancreatic cancer patients
A UK-led clinical trial has successfully prolonged survival for pancreatic cancer patients by at least five years using a combination of chemotherapy drugs. The study found that patients who received this treatment had a 29% five-year survival rate compared to 16% for those on standard treatment.
Overall rate of death from cancer decreases in US
Cancer mortality in the US declined by 20.1% from 240 to 192 deaths per 100,000 population between 1980 and 2014. Distinct clusters of counties with high cancer mortality rates were found, varying by type of cancer and region.
Hearst Foundation funds TGen research into cancer-related 'wasting syndrome'
Cachexia, a condition characterized by weight loss and muscle atrophy in cancer patients, is responsible for over 30% of deaths. Researchers aim to reverse this condition through novel treatments involving febuxostat, beta-blockers, and gut microbiome transplantation.
Pancreatic tumors rely on signals from surrounding cells
Researchers at Salk Institute found that pancreatic cancer cells alter their metabolism in response to signals from surrounding stromal cells. Blocking these signals with a drug called JQ1 can slow tumor growth in mice, paving the way for potential new treatments.
'Collateral' lethality may offer new therapeutic approach for cancers of the pancreas, stomach and colon
Scientists identified collateral lethal vulnerability in pancreatic cancers that can be targeted pharmacologically in certain patient populations. ME3 inhibitors may provide an effective therapy for many cancer patients.
UK's Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund announces latest grant awards
The UK Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund has awarded £9 million in grants to five promising research projects aimed at developing new treatments and diagnostic tools for pancreatic cancer. These projects focus on improving clinical trials, investigating innovative therapies, and understanding the genetic causes of chromosomal instability.
Study challenges potential pancreatic cancer target
Researchers found PDX1 plays a complex role in pancreatic cancer, maintaining cell identity in normal cells but contributing to growth once tumor forms. Blocking PDX1 may actually make the cancer more aggressive by selecting for MYC-expressing cells.
Potentially reversible changes in gene control 'prime' pancreatic cancer cells to spread
A study found that epigenetic changes, not DNA mutations, drive metastasis in pancreatic cancer cells. Researchers also identified a potential therapeutic target to block tumor formation in lab-grown cancer cells.
Metastatic pancreatic cancer 'reprogrammed' for malignancy
A Vanderbilt-led study identifies a compound that can reverse the malignant reprogramming of metastatic pancreatic cancer cells. The research found that distant metastases undergo massive epigenetic changes that enable tumor formation, but these changes can be reversed with the inhibition of phosphogluconate dehydrogenase enzyme.
Reason for pancreatic cancer's resistance to chemotherapy found
A University of Liverpool research team has discovered that tumour-associated macrophages and fibroblasts secrete insulin-like growth factors, which activate a survival signalling pathway in pancreatic cancer cells, making them resistant to chemotherapy. This mechanism is found in 72% of patients, paving the way for new therapeutic tar...
New discovery paves way for pancreatic cancer treatment
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have made a groundbreaking discovery that could pave the way for pancreatic cancer treatment. The study reveals that exosomes, tiny vesicles released by supporting cells, can educate cancer cells on how to survive chemotherapy, making the disease resistant to treatment.
TGen's Dr. Von Hoff is named a 'Giant of Cancer Care'
Dr. Daniel Von Hoff has been recognized as a 'Giant of Cancer Care' for his pioneering work in gastrointestinal cancer and development of new treatments. He is being honored for his commitment to improving the lives of patients and families affected by cancer.
TGen discovers potential drug targets to reduce pain in pancreatic cancer patients
TGen researchers discovered that blocking nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling can reduce the potential of pancreatic cancer cells to invade surrounding nerves, leading to pain. The study found that NGF and its receptor TRKA are associated with perineural invasion, a key mechanism in the progression of pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic cancer set to become third biggest cancer killer in EU next year
Pancreatic cancer is expected to become the third leading cause of death from cancer in the EU by 2017. The number of deaths from pancreatic cancer will overtake breast cancer mortality rates in the EU, with 91,500 estimated deaths next year.
Study links changes in collagen to worse pancreatic cancer prognosis
Researchers found a specific rearrangement of collagen fibers surrounding tumors associated with early death, which may indicate poorer survival rates. The study suggests that understanding collagen's role in cancer could lead to new therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer.
Discovery of blood biomarkers for early pancreatic cancer detection
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a new method to detect pancreatic cancer using blood biomarkers, enabling early-stage diagnosis and improving prognosis. The discovery of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) and IGFBP3 as promising biomarkers shows promise for screening various types of cancer.
Tiny gold particles could be the key to developing a treatment for pancreatic cancer
Researchers have discovered that gold nanoparticles can reduce cell proliferation and migration near pancreatic tumors by interrupting cellular communication. This breakthrough could lead to a new type of treatment for the disease, which affects over 53,000 Americans this year.
Some websites may not be effective in helping cancer patients make treatment decisions
Studies show that websites for pancreatic cancer treatment differ in their presentation of information. Researchers found that non-profit organizations' websites were more easily understood and recommended by patients. The study suggests that website usability and visuals play a significant role in patient recommendations.
Starving pancreatic cancer cells: Scientists identify potential pancreatic cancer target
Researchers have discovered that SLC6A14 is overexpressed in pancreatic tumors and cancerous cells, transporting amino acids for cellular metabolism. Blocking SLC6A14 with alpha-methyltryptophan starves pancreatic cancer cells, reducing growth and proliferation
New findings published in Nature challenge current view of how pancreatic cancer develops
Researchers discovered that pancreatic cancer develops rapidly through a 'big bang' process, where key alterations occur simultaneously. This finding provides new insights into the disease's aggressiveness and may lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Medication against schizophrenia inhibits pancreatic cancer
Researchers identified dopamine receptor DRD2 as a key molecule in pancreatic cancer. Blocking the receptor inhibited cancer growth, while its blockade also slowed tumor growth in mice.
SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 7, 2016
Immune system infighting explains pancreatic cancer's aggression
A recent study published in Cell found that gamma delta T cells prevent tumor-fighting immune cells from attacking pancreatic tumors. This infighting makes immunotherapy less effective, with only 8% of people surviving five years after diagnosis.
Natural compound from a deep-water marine sponge found to reduce pancreatic tumor size
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have discovered a natural compound, leiodermatolide, that inhibits cancer cell growth and blocks division using low concentrations. The compound has shown significant tumor reduction in a mouse model of metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic cancer cells find unique fuel sources to keep from starving
Pancreatic cancer cells use stellate cells to scavenge for energy, increasing mitochondrial metabolism and tumor cell growth. Alanine is the key fuel source that promotes tumor proliferation.
Pancreatic cancer resists personalized medicine -- what researchers are doing to fight back
A new approach using patient-derived cell lines has revealed that pancreatic tumors have diverse genetic mutations, making it challenging to target treatments. The study suggests that personalized medicine can be improved by testing drugs against each patient's specific tumor genetics.
Novel drug therapy kills pancreatic cancer cells by reducing levels of antioxidants
A new drug therapy has been developed that targets pancreatic cancer cells by reducing their antioxidant levels, mimicking the suppression of NRF2. This approach has shown promise in preclinical studies and could provide a novel treatment option for this devastating disease.
Cancer Research UK boosts efforts to overcome deadliest cancer as rates climb
Cancer Research UK has tripled its investment in pancreatic cancer research, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment. The charity hopes to develop better treatments and improve survival rates for patients affected by the disease.
Study sheds light on true risk for pancreatic cancer in patients with cysts
A study published in GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy found that patients with pancreatic cysts are at a significantly increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, with an estimated 19.64 times higher risk compared to those without cysts.
SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJul 11, 2016
Immune-based therapy in mice shows promise against pancreatic cancer
Researchers have found that a combination of immunotherapy and FAK inhibitors can improve survival times in mice with pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that targeting fibrous tissue in tumors may render them more responsive to immune therapies.
Novel gene-hunting method implicates new culprit in pancreatic cancer
Researchers developed a rapid screening technique to analyze human tumors transplanted into mice, identifying WDR5 as a new culprit in pancreatic cancer. The study found that WDR5 protects tumors from DNA damage and works with the previously known cancer-promoting gene Myc to help tumors thrive.
Novel imaging model helps reveal new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer
Researchers developed an innovative imaging model to track drug resistance and identify a new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. The study revealed that the Musashi gene plays a critical role in promoting aggressive disease and found effective antisense inhibitors against Msi, halting tumor growth and improving survival.
Rucaparib shows clinical benefit in pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA mutation
A phase II clinical study found a 32% clinical benefit in pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA mutation, including one complete response and two partial responses. The drug's acceptable safety profile suggests it may be an option earlier in the treatment course for some patients.
Detecting an early biomarker for pancreatic cancer in blood
Researchers identify human satellite II (HSATII) RNA as a promising early detection method for pancreatic cancer, with significantly higher levels found in patients' blood serum. A pilot study validated the test's ability to detect pancreatic cancer and a precancerous lesion in two cohorts of patients.
Pancreatic cancer: Aggressive behavior from the start
Researchers discovered that pancreatic cancers acquire metastatic capacity before transforming into cancer cells. Low miR-192 levels in tumor tissue are associated with rapidly progressing disease. miR-192 may serve as a clinical marker and potential therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer treatment.
SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 1, 2016
Chemo, radiation, surgery combo boosts survival for pancreatic cancer patients
Mayo Clinic researchers found that a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can significantly improve survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients. Patients who received chemotherapy and/or radiation before surgery had better long-term outcomes than those who did not, with median survival times approaching four years.
Vitamin A may help improve pancreatic cancer chemotherapy
Researchers have found that a combination of vitamin A and chemotherapy can reduce cancer cell proliferation and invasion in pancreatic cancer. The approach targets both cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells, blocking multiple cell signalling pathways used by cancer cells to become aggressive.
Damon Runyon Foundation selects new recipients of Physician-Scientist Training Award
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has selected five physician-scientists to receive the Physician-Scientist Training Award, providing them with resources to pursue cancer research. The awardees will receive grants totaling $2.3 million to aid their work in addressing the growing need for cancer research.
Why cancer drugs can't take the pressure
Researchers discovered that high-pressure environments in solid tumors, fueled by hyaluronic acid, hinder drug delivery. Treatment with an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid can restore vessel expansion and improve treatment outcomes for drug-resistant cancers.
Improvements to online health information can help reduce barriers to care for pancreatic cancer
A new study found that online information about pancreatic cancer is often written at a reading level beyond the sixth grade, making it inaccessible to the general population. The research highlights the need for accurate and understandable health information to empower patients in making informed decisions about their care.
Readability of online health information for patients with pancreatic cancer
Websites geared towards more educated groups struggle to communicate with the general population. Nonprofit, academic, and government websites have higher accuracy but are harder to read. Healthcare professionals should actively evaluate online resources for their patients.
Chemoradiotherapy vs. chemotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer
A randomized study found that chemoradiotherapy did not improve overall survival compared to chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer, contradicting prior expectations. The study also showed no significant difference between gemcitabine and gemcitabine plus erlotinib treatments.
Research points to a new treatment for pancreatic cancer
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a link between cholesterol metabolism and pancreatic cancer spread, pointing to potential new treatment using drugs for atherosclerosis. Controlling cholesterol metabolism reduces tumor growth and metastasis in mice.
Pancreatic cancer risk tied to specific mouth bacteria
A new study has found a direct link between pancreatic cancer and certain mouth bacteria, specifically Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Men and women with these bacteria in their oral microbiome were at least 50% and 59% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, respectively.
Researchers find method that could resurrect an abandoned pancreatic cancer targeted drug
Scientists have identified a mechanism behind pancreatic cancer's resistance to certain drugs and found a way to block it, making the cancer susceptible to formerly ineffective therapies. By targeting a protein called HuR, researchers can revive abandoned drugs and develop more effective combination therapies.
Protein found to play key role in the spread of pancreatic cancer
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have identified a critical role for stromal cells in the spread of pancreatic cancer to the liver. The study found that the protein granulin plays a key role in facilitating this process, and that targeting its expression may hold the key to stopping cancer from spreading.
New immune-stimulating drug, with chemo, shrinks pancreas tumors
A phase 1b clinical trial shows that an experimental therapy can control pancreatic cancer tumors well enough to make patients eligible for surgery. The treatment, PF-04136309, was found to be safe and effective when combined with chemotherapy.
American Cancer Society awards new research and training grants
The American Cancer Society has awarded nearly $44 million in grants to 103 researchers across the US. New grants focus on immunotherapy, DNA repair pathways, and metastasis, while existing grants support programs for adolescents and young adults with cancer.
BIDMC researchers discover early indicators of pancreatic cancer
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a 5-gene classifier that can accurately detect early stages of pancreatic cancer, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The classifier achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates in training and validation datasets.
New proteins discovered that link obesity-driven diabetes to cancer
Researchers have identified a link between adult-onset diabetes and certain cancers, highlighting the role of bromodomain (BRD) proteins. The study suggests that targeting BET proteins may be beneficial for both conditions.
Nothing to sneeze at -- battling mucus to beat cancer
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have identified a gene target called GCNT3 that may offer promise in improving the treatment of pancreatic cancer. By targeting this gene, they theorized that multiple mucins could be shut down simultaneously, breaking down cancer's protective barrier.