Articles tagged with Pancreatic Cancer
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have discovered a biomarker, phosphatidylserine, that can be effectively targeted to kill pancreatic cancer cells. The use of a biotherapy consisting of saposin C and dioleoylphosphatidylserine combined in nanovesicles shows promising results in animal models.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that mice on high-fat diets developed abnormally high numbers of pancreatic lesions, which are precursors to pancreas cancer. A normal diet was shown to have a significant impact on reducing the risk of this deadly disease.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found stereotactic body radiotherapy to be a viable option for elderly patients with localized pancreatic cancer, offering a six-to-seven-month increase in lifespan and minimal side effects. The study also showed that two patients lived nearly two years after treatment.
Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed a novel immunotherapy approach that demonstrates substantial tumor regression in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The treatment combines gemcitabine with an agonist CD40 antibody and uses real-time FDG/PET-CT imaging to monitor tumor response.
A study published in Genome Medicine has identified a specific subtype of pancreatic cancer that expresses high levels of the HER2 gene, which could be treated with existing breast and gastric cancer therapies. The research suggests using personalized medicine strategies to target this subtype, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Researchers at UTHealth discovered a novel signaling axis that promotes pancreatic cancer growth by activating a transcription factor CREB and an oncogenic miR-373, while suppressing tumor suppressor genes. The findings provide potential mechanistic insights into how a zinc transporter functions in cancer cells.
Researchers found that flavonoids in celery, artichokes and Mexican oregano can kill human pancreatic cancer cells by inhibiting the GSK-3β enzyme. This pre-treatment approach may prolong life without curing the disease, while preventing it could reduce cancer risk with chronic flavonoid exposure.
A new study found that consuming a high-quality diet is linked to a lower risk of pancreatic cancer. Participants who adhered most closely to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans had a 15% reduced risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those with poorer dietary habits.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have made a breakthrough discovery about the origin of inflammation-driven pancreatic cancer. They found that chronic inflammation in the pancreas can push acinar cells to transform into duct-like cells, which can then acquire mutations leading to further progression of pancreatic cancer. The study identified...
The AGA Research Foundation has awarded a $2.25M grant to support basic research in pancreatic cancer, a devastating disease with over 38,400 deaths expected in the US in 2013. Young researchers will receive $90,000 per year for three years to conduct research related to pancreatic cancer.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have created a human-cell model of early-disease progression in pancreatic cancer using induced pluripotent stem cells. The study identified biomarkers that could be used for early detection, treatment, and prognosis.
Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer by inhibiting the activity of GSK-3 alpha, a protein that promotes oncogenic KRAS function. The study found that blocking GSK-3 alpha resulted in an anti-tumor response in mouse models, suggesting a viable treatment option.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a promising method to distinguish between pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis. A molecular marker obtained from pancreatic 'juices' can identify almost all cases of pancreatic cancer, with a detection rate of 75%.
A team of researchers at NYU School of Medicine has made a breakthrough in understanding how pancreatic tumor cells feed themselves. By identifying the role of macropinocytosis in delivering nutrients to Ras-transformed cancer cells, they have uncovered a potential new target for treating this lethal disease.
The Seena Magowitz Foundation has donated $500,000 to support clinical trials of the drug Abraxane, which extends survival in pancreatic cancer patients. This donation represents a decade of advocacy and fundraising efforts, aiming to make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients and their families.
A new therapy uses radioactive Listeria bacteria to selectively infect tumor cells and deliver radioisotopes, dramatically decreasing the number of metastases in a mouse model of highly aggressive pancreatic cancer. The treatment also showed promise in reducing metastases by 90% in mice with metastatic pancreatic cancer.
The article provides an evidence-based overview of pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of surgery as a curative option. Key findings also highlight the benefits of accelerated progress in understanding the disease through partnerships between clinicians and basic scientists.
Dana-Farber scientists have identified a novel glutamine pathway that fuels the growth and spread of pancreatic cancer cells, which may be vulnerable to targeted drugs. The research suggests that inhibiting this pathway could make tumors more susceptible to standard treatments without harming healthy tissues.
Researchers from NYU College of Dentistry and School of Medicine will explore the role of intestinal microbiota in promoting pancreatic carcinogenesis. The study aims to determine whether endogenous gut bacteria can affect pancreatic oncogenesis and identify potential targets for prevention and treatment.
Two Indiana University researchers, Mark R. Kelley and Melissa L. Fishel, receive a $3.2 million grant to develop new therapies for pancreatic cancer. They aim to block a protein called Ref-1, which is involved in signaling between the tumor and its environment.
Researchers found that bitter melon juice restricts glucose metabolism and kills pancreatic cancer cells, cutting their energy source. The study used mouse models and showed a 60% reduction in disease development compared to controls.
A team from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified a molecular master switch for pancreatic cancer, which could serve as a potential predictor of treatment outcome. The researchers found that Prrx1 and Sox9 regulate the emergence of an intermediate cell type that can give rise to cancer.
A study mapping the landscape of kinases in cancerous and non-cancerous tissue identified outlier kinase expression that can be targeted with existing drugs. Researchers found promising combinations, including adding a FGFR4-inhibitor to Herceptin for HER2-positive breast cancer tumors.
A multi-center Phase III clinical trial demonstrates that Abraxane plus gemcitabine extends survival of late-stage pancreatic cancer patients compared to standard treatment. The study showed a 59 percent increase in one-year median survival rates and a doubling of two-year survival to 9%.
The 2013 Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium revealed new advances in treating and prophesizing gastrointestinal cancers. The symposium presented five important studies, including a Phase III clinical trial showing that postoperative treatment with S-1 chemotherapy reduces relapses and extends survival in patients with pancreatic cancer.
The American Cancer Society's annual report shows a 20% decrease in cancer mortality rates since 1991, with significant drops in lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers. These declines are attributed to reductions in smoking and improvements in early detection and treatment.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a new molecular pathway that promotes accelerated growth of pancreatic tumors, and discovered ways to disable it. The findings suggest using the drug bortezomib as a potential strategy for treating pancreatic cancer.
Researchers found an inverse association between low adiponectin plasma levels and the risk of pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that metabolism plays a role in the pathophysiology of pancreatic cancer, potentially leading to improved survival rates with early detection and therapeutic interventions.
Researchers discovered that acinar cells convert into duct-like cells that initiate tumors in pancreatic cancer. Inflammation of the pancreas promotes this conversion. The study suggests Sox9 as a potential target to prevent early tumor-initiating events.
The study identified mutations in genes involved in chromatin modification and axon guidance, which are not previously linked to pancreatic cancer. New information on these genes could lead to exciting treatment strategies for the disease.
A large-scale study has defined the complexity of underlying mutations responsible for pancreatic cancers, revealing that 'pancreatic cancer' is not one disease but many. The analysis found over 2,000 mutated genes, with some associated with poorer outcomes.
Researchers found a direct relationship between telomere length and pancreatic cancer risk: shorter telomeres increase the likelihood of developing the disease. The study used data from over 1,500 individuals, including those with pancreatic cancer and healthy controls, to demonstrate this link.
Research by Centre INRS–Institut Armand-Frappier and Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal found a possible association between night work and increased risk of prostate, colon, lung, bladder, rectal, and pancreatic cancer. Exposure to light at night can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
A new study by TGen, Mayo Clinic and SHC demonstrated the power of whole genome sequencing in advancing understanding of pancreatic cancer. The research identified 142 cellular genetic coding events, including mutations, insertions and deletions, in three patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
TGen's Dr. Daniel Von Hoff delivers his lecture on a molecular pursuit approach to take out pancreatic cancer, honoring the memory of patient Lori Groetken who fought the disease for two years. The award recognizes his significant contributions to genomic research and novel therapy development in pancreatic cancer.
A new study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that smoking and heavy drinking can lead to an earlier onset of pancreatic cancer. The study analyzed data from 811 patients with pancreatic cancer and found that those who smoked heavily or drank excessively were diagnosed at a younger age than those who did not.
A study found that high antibody levels for Porphyromonas gingivalis were associated with a two-fold risk of pancreatic cancer, while high levels of antibodies for commensal oral bacteria were linked to a 45-percent lower risk. The study strengthens the suggestion that oral bacteria may be indicators of pancreatic cancer risk.
A Mayo-led study finds that pancreatic cancer develops from the interaction of KRAS mutations, inflammation, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), requiring multiple genetic factors for tumor formation. The study suggests that EGFR inhibitors may be effective in treating patients with chronic pancreatitis or normal p53 activity.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that patients without a pancreas can control their blood sugar levels as effectively as type 1 diabetes patients using insulin replacement. The study's findings suggest that removing the entire pancreas is reasonably safe and effective for diabetes management.
A new study provides a quantitative look at the experience of pancreatic cancer patients, giving them concrete data to inform their treatment decisions. The study found that maximizing quality of life is crucial for these patients, who have limited time left due to the disease.
Kansas State University researchers have made significant discoveries in cancer research by studying animal health. They found SCID pigs with severe combined immunodeficiency and discovered the connection between human cancer and pig diseases. This collaboration has huge potential for improving surgeries, drug development, and bone mar...
Research published in the journal Gut suggests that increasing dietary intake of antioxidant vitamins C, E, and selenium could cut the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The study found a significant association between high antioxidant intake and reduced pancreatic cancer risk, with potential prevention of over one in 12 cases.
A new study published in the journal Stem Cell reveals an antibody developed by researchers can detect stem cells in organs like the liver and pancreas. This breakthrough helps understand tissue regeneration and cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A recent study found that patients who received chemotherapy following removal of periampullary cancer experienced improved overall survival compared to those who did not receive chemotherapy. The study also suggested that gemcitabine therapy provided the most significant survival benefit, with a median survival time of 43.1 months.
Researchers analyzed genes expressed in circulating tumor cells and found increased expression of WNT2, a known oncogene, in CTCs from mouse models and human patients. Targeting the WNT2 pathway may reduce metastatic potential, which is critical for controlling pancreatic cancer.
Researchers identified de novo somatic mutations in three genes associated with hemimegalencephaly, a rare childhood disease. These findings suggest potential treatments targeting the known gene mutations could reduce or prevent radical surgery.
A high-fat/calorie diet has been shown to accelerate the development of pancreatic cancer in both human epidemiological studies and mouse models. In the latter, mice fed a diet rich in fat and calories developed obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all conditions that can stimulate the growth of precancerous cells.
Researchers identified a genetic marker in the vitamin D receptor gene associated with improved overall survival rates among pancreatic cancer patients. The study's findings suggest that this genetic variation may play a role in the survival of patients treated for advanced pancreatic cancer.
Researchers found that combining TH-302 with radiation reduced tumor growth in high and medium hypoxic xenografts, but not in low- or nonhypoxic implants. Tumor growth rates were also crucial in predicting treatment efficacy.
Researchers have identified leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) as a potential target to block the growth of cancer stem cells in pancreatic tumors. Blocking LIF activity has been shown to reduce the tumor's ability to regenerate and metastasize.
A phase I study found the combination of erlotinib, bevacizumab, capecitabine, and radiotherapy to be safe and well-tolerated in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The regimen showed promising activity, with a low toxicity rate, and was associated with improved survival rates for some patients.
A recent study has identified the RLIP76 protein as a key contributor to pancreatic cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. Depleting levels of this protein was found to kill human pancreatic cancer cells in culture and shrink established tumors in mice, making it a potential new treatment target.
Researchers found that metformin effectively eliminates cancer stem cells in pancreatic cancer, leading to tumor regression and long-term survival. Combining metformin with standard chemotherapy further eradicated both cancer stem cells and differentiated cancer cells.
Researchers found that combining GDC-0449 with standard chemotherapy improved response rates and progression-free survival for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The treatment targets the desmoplastic stroma and pancreatic cancer stem cells, which contribute to disease resistance.
A new study has identified elevated levels of four neurotrophic factors in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer, which could be responsible for the development of pain in patients. These findings suggest that tumor-nerve interactions play a significant role in cancer progression and pain.
A population-based study has found that high levels of ultraviolet radiation at birth, sun-sensitive skin type, and a history of skin cancer decreased the risk of pancreatic cancer. Participants born in areas with high UV radiation had a 24% lower risk compared to those born in low UV areas.
Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered a new interaction between two well-known molecules that could lead to a beneficial therapy against necrosis and inflammation in the body. The study found that blocking the effect of Bcl-2 on calcium pumps could be an attractive target for treating pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
A Phase 2 clinical trial is underway to test the effectiveness and safety of INNO-206 in treating advanced pancreatic ductual adenocarcinomas. The drug works like a Trojan Horse by being prepared in albumin, which pancreatic cancer cells prefer, allowing it to deliver cancer-killing agents directly to the tumor.
Researchers at NYU School of Medicine have made a key discovery about the progression of pancreatic cancer, revealing how it escapes immune detection. By targeting a protein called GM-CSF, they found that immune cells can be unleashed to attack and halt tumor development.
Researchers discovered that pancreatic cancer cells produce a protein that tricks the immune system into helping cancer growth. Blocking this protein may lead to effective treatments for pancreatic cancer. The findings suggest restoring the antitumor properties of a patient's immune system could be a therapeutic strategy.