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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.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2016

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMay 10, 2016

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.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 5, 2016

Immune therapy breaks down wall around pancreatic tumors for chemo to attack

Researchers have discovered a novel role for CD40 antibodies in re-educating macrophages to break down the tumor microenvironment, allowing chemotherapy to target pancreatic cancer more effectively. The optimal timing of delivery is critical, with chemotherapy being most effective when administered five days after CD40 treatment.

Non-integrating viral vector delivers chemotherapy-sensitizing gene to pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers develop integrase-defective lentiviral vector to deliver chemotherapy-sensitizing gene to pancreatic tumor cells, reducing risk of insertional mutagenesis. The system enables high efficacy delivery of the gene that encodes for DCK protein to cancer cells, making them more sensitive to chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine.

Moffitt makes important steps toward developing a blood test to catch pancreatic cancer early

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center are developing a blood test using microRNAs to identify and characterize precursor lesions that can progress to pancreatic cancer. The test may help differentiate between low- and high-risk lesions, allowing for more informed personalized medical management decisions.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateAug 28, 2015