Pancreatic Cancer Research
At City of Hope®, we offer access to clinical trials for pancreatic cancer aimed at improving survival rates and enhancing quality of life. These trials include novel drug therapies, advanced surgical techniques and ways to support patients and improve their quality of life.
For example, we are investigating a drug that may disrupt pancreatic cancer cells’ resistance to chemotherapy.
We are comparing blood samples of healthy adults and pancreatic cancer patients to search for DNA abnormalities. The goal is to design a DNA test able to detect pancreatic cancer recurrence or spread at its earliest stages.
We are also testing new supportive care services aimed at improving quality of life and the overall care experience for pancreatic cancer patients.
City of Hope’s pancreatic cancer research includes the following:
- Basic science/early clinical: City of Hope is looking at possible solutions such as vaccines, cancer-killing oncolytic viruses, personalized medicine, microRNA and leading-edge disease imaging
- Early detection: City of Hope is identifying biomarkers for the early detection of pancreatic cancer when it is more treatable and possibly curable
- Translational research: Some of City of Hope’s preclinical work in experimental pancreatic cancer treatments has advanced to phase 2 clinical trials testing efficacy in humans. This research is sometimes supported by industry who see the potential of our research and clinical trials, including Merck.
- Clinical trials: City of Hope has open clinical trials using targeted therapy, immunotherapy and other leading-edge experimental treatments for pancreatic cancer.
- Supportive care: City of Hope looks at the whole person when it comes to people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. We have a Department of Defense grant using telehealth to better identify quality of life impediments and recommend interventions.
For more information about City of Hope’s clinical trials, please go here.