Pancreatic Cancer Research at City of Hope

November 22, 2024

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Laleh Melstrom, M.D., M.S., associate professor of surgery and immuno-oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte

At City of Hope, we offer access to drug, surgical and other clinical trials aimed at improving pancreatic cancer survival rates and enhancing quality of life.

Some of our current and past pancreatic cancer research projects include:

  • Investigating a drug called PEGPH20 to evaluate whether it may disrupt pancreatic cancer cells' ability to fight off chemotherapy by creating a barrier around tumors
  • Comparing blood samples of healthy adults and pancreatic cancer patients to search for DNA abnormalities with the goal of designing a DNA test that detects a cancer recurrence or spread at its earliest stages
  • Evaluating the safety and efficacy of using endovascularly applied padeliporfin vascular targeted photodynamic therapy for patients with locally advanced unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

City of Hope is home to a supportive care program aimed at improving quality of life and the overall pancreatic cancer care experience.

Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trials

As a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, City of Hope’s pancreatic cancer program is uniquely positioned to provide personalized and comprehensive treatment plans, along with access to groundbreaking clinical trials. City of Hope has one of the most experienced pancreatic cancer programs in the country.

Our world-class experts offer pancreatic cancer patients, including those with complicated cases, access to a wide variety of trials, evaluating leading-edge treatments and innovative therapies.

To refer a patient to one of our clinical trials, please call (626) 218-1133 or visit our Clinical Trials page.