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A metabolic treatment for pancreatic cancer?

Researchers discovered that targeting arginase 2, an enzyme involved in nitrogen metabolism, can curb the growth of pancreatic tumors, especially in obese individuals. The study suggests a novel approach to treating this deadly cancer, with potential for improved survival rates and therapeutic windows.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2017

Researchers identify prognostic indicators of survival following pancreatic tumor removal

A study of 43 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma found two preoperative factors strongly predictive of poor prognosis, regardless of tumor stage. These biomarkers, C-reactive protein/albumin ratio and prognostic nutritional index, may help plan treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Pancreatic Cancer·DateAug 10, 2017

Blood test for early detection of pancreatic cancer headed to clinic

A newly identified biomarker panel correctly detects early pancreatic cancer in human cells, improving the ability to diagnose patients at different stages of their disease. The panel combines plasma thrombospondin-2 with CA19-9 levels for reliable detection of pancreatic cancer, potentially altering treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 12, 2017

Combined molecular biology test is the first to distinguish benign pancreatic lesions

A combined molecular biology test can accurately identify benign pancreatic lesions, potentially sparing patients from unnecessary cancer screenings and operations. The test uses two proteins to rule out precancer and cancer, with a sensitivity of 95.5% and specificity of 100% for distinguishing between serous cystic neoplasms (SCN) an...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 22, 2017

The secret to combating pancreatic cancer may lie in suppression of a common protein

A new study by researchers at the University of Southern California reveals that reducing glucose-regulated protein GRP78 can halt pancreatic cancer development and prolong survival. The findings suggest that targeting this protein could lead to a novel approach in treating KRAS-mutation related cancers.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Study suggests role for radiotherapy for extending the lives of pancreatic cancer patients

Researchers suggest that radiotherapy could have a role in extending the lives of patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer. Studies show that higher doses of radiation are associated with longer survival times. The study analyzed data from over 500 patients and found that those who received higher doses lived significantly longer.

Pancreatic cancer patients may live longer by traveling to academic hospital for operation

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that pancreatic cancer patients who travel to academic medical centers for surgery have longer overall survival rates and better quality care. For thyroid cancer patients, traveling also results in more adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 1, 2017

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.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEpidemiology·DateFeb 14, 2017

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