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Researchers Report Progress on Two Blood Tests for Pancreatic Cancer Detection

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Two New Blood Tests Show Promise for Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is frequently identified at a late stage when treatment options are limited. According to historical data, approximately 1 in 10 patients survive more than five years following diagnosis.

Two separate research teams have published studies detailing new blood test methods for detecting pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a type of pancreatic cancer often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Both approaches aim to improve early detection.

Test 1: Four-Marker Protein Panel

Investigators from the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and the Mayo Clinic, supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), developed a blood test analyzing four protein biomarkers.

Methodology
  • The team examined previously studied biomarkers, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) and thrombospondin 2 (THBS2).
  • Through analysis of banked blood samples, they identified two new protein biomarkers: aminopeptidase N (ANPEP) and polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR).
  • The study used banked blood samples from patients with and without pancreatic cancer.
Results
  • The four-marker panel correctly identified pancreatic cancer cases from non-cases 91.9% of the time across all stages, with a 5% false positive rate.
  • For early-stage (stage I/II) cancer, the test identified 87.5% of cases.
  • The panel also distinguished cancer patients from healthy individuals and those with non-cancerous pancreatic conditions, such as pancreatitis.
Next Steps

Lead investigator Kenneth Zaret, Ph.D., stated that further testing in larger populations is required, particularly in individuals before symptoms appear. Such studies would evaluate the test's potential as a screening tool for high-risk individuals, including those with a family history, specific genetic screening results, or a personal history of pancreatic cysts or pancreatitis. The study received support from NIH grants.

Test 2: Nanoparticle and Electric Jolt Method

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) developed a technique combining an electronic charge with nanoparticles to detect pancreatic cancer biomarkers in blood. The study was published in the journal Small.

Methodology
  • The test uses a microchip that applies an electric charge to collect nanoparticles shed by tumors.
  • Fluorescent staining is then used to identify cancer biomarkers.
  • The study was led by Stuart Ibsen, Ph.D., associate professor of biomedical engineering at OHSU School of Medicine and the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute.
Results
  • In a blinded study of 36 people (including those with pancreatic cancer and those with benign pancreatic disorders), the test correctly distinguished cancer from benign disease with 97% likelihood.
  • This compared to 79% for standard tissue biopsies in the same study.
  • The technique can differentiate cancerous tumors from benign precancerous lesions.
Next Steps

The authors estimate the technique may be ready for clinical use in approximately five years. Funding was provided by the National Cancer Institute of the NIH and the Pancreatic Cancer Detection Consortium. The research was conducted in collaboration with OHSU's Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care and included co-authors from OHSU, RyboDyn Inc., and the University of California San Diego.