Promising breakthrough in pancreatic cancer treatment offers hope for longer survival
Preclinical research conducted by researchers from VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and the VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine suggests that polyinosine–polycytidylic acid (pIC) delivered directly into tumor cells shows promise as a new treatment option for pancreatic cancer. The study found that pIC suppresses tumor growth, induces cancer cell death, and enhances survival in animal models with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). When used alone or in combination with gemcitabine, pIC was safe and non-toxic to normal pancreatic cells. The treatment combination significantly improved the survival of immune-competent mice with PDAC tumors. The study also revealed the mechanism of pIC's effectiveness and its ability to activate the immune system's response to cancer cells. The researchers believe this approach could have translational potential to improve the survival of people with PDAC and potentially other cancer types.