Despite advances in research and the advent of multiple investigational treatments, pancreatic cancer is still incredibly difficult to treat. The five-year survival rate sits at just 12%. Existing therapies are limited, and diagnostic measures must be improved. Continued research and exploration in this space is needed to identify possible therapeutic interventions.
One potential intervention being explored is MAb-AR20.5, an experimental monoclonal antibody that targets Mucin 1 (MUC1). Expressed on the surface of cancerous cells, MUC1 protects cancer against apoptosis (cell death). By targeting MUC1, MAb-AR20.5 could potentially make cancerous cells more vulnerable to treatment and destruction while leaving healthy cells intact.
The FDA recently granted Orphan Drug designation to MAb-AR20.5, reports biopharmaceutical company CanariaBio Inc. in a news release. Orphan Drug status is granted to therapies which could treat, prevent, or diagnose rare conditions affecting under 200,000 people nationwide. It comes with incentives such as fee waivers, up to seven years of market exclusivity if the drug is approved, and increased FDA communication.
The treatment received this status following efficacy in preclinical studies. Moving forward, CanariaBio hopes to launch a clinical study to further evaluate the impact of MAb-AR20.5 on pancreatic cancer.
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer forms in the pancreas, an organ that releases enzymes for digestion and hormones for blood sugar management. A majority of pancreatic cancer is exocrine, but a smaller number are rarer forms such as Islet cell tumors. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, older age, being male, and having a family history of this cancer.
Unfortunately, many people are asymptomatic in early stages, meaning that the cancer isn’t diagnosed until it has progressed. Symptoms include newly onset or worsening diabetes, appetite loss, fatigue, blood clots, dark urine and pale stools, unintentional weight loss, upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, jaundice, and bowel obstructions. If you have pancreatic cancer, speak with your care team about the best treatment option for you. Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation may all be utilized.
