The medical community is grappling with a disturbing trend as pancreatic cancer rates rise disproportionately among young women, highlighting the pressing need for innovative treatments. This development comes to light as public figures like Maria Menounos bring attention to the disease, which is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in America, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Pancreatic cancer presents unique challenges in both detection and treatment. The absence of clear early-stage symptoms and the lack of effective screening methods often result in late-stage diagnoses, severely limiting treatment options. Johns Hopkins University notes that diagnosis typically requires an extensive series of tests, which are usually only conducted after symptoms appear, often revealing advanced-stage cancer.
In response to this critical healthcare issue, Theriva Biologics (AMEX: TOVX) is pioneering a novel approach to pancreatic cancer treatment. The company is currently conducting a phase 2b trial of VCN-01, an oncolytic adenovirus therapy, in combination with standard chemotherapy drugs for patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Theriva’s CEO, Steven Shallcross, emphasized the potential of VCN-01, stating, ‘We believe VCN-01’s differentiated mechanism of action has the potential to address the urgent need for new treatment options for patients with PDAC by degrading the tumor matrix and increasing tumor access.’ The therapy aims to replicate within and destroy cancer tissue, potentially offering a more targeted approach with fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments.
The trial combines VCN-01 with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel, chemotherapy drugs that have been standard treatments for advanced pancreatic cancer. The NIH notes that gemcitabine has been a first-line treatment for 15 years, often used in combination with nab-paclitaxel.
Initial results from Theriva’s trial are promising, with Shallcross reporting that repeated systemic dosing of VCN-01 with standard chemotherapy has demonstrated an acceptable safety profile. This development is particularly significant given the challenges in studying pancreatic cancer, especially in relation to gender-specific trends, as noted by gastrointestinal oncologist Mridula Krishnan, MBBS.
The potential impact of Theriva’s research extends beyond pancreatic cancer. The company is also exploring VCN-01’s efficacy in treating pediatric refractory retinoblastoma and adult ovarian cancer, potentially broadening its application in oncology.
The urgency of this research is underscored by market projections. According to DataBridge Market Research, the global pancreatic cancer treatment market is expected to reach more than $6.2 billion by 2029, reflecting the significant unmet need in this area of oncology.
As the medical community continues to grapple with the rising incidence of pancreatic cancer, particularly among young women, the work of companies like Theriva Biologics offers a glimmer of hope. Their innovative approach to cancer treatment, if successful, could represent a significant step forward in improving outcomes for patients facing this challenging diagnosis.
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