A Molecule Long Thought Harmless Plays a Role in Pancreatic Cancer, Could Hint at Cure

By Daniel Bastardo Blanco
Jun 20, 2019 8:00 PMDec 17, 2019 5:14 AM
Pancreas
The location of the pancreas in the human body. (Credit: Magic mine/Shutterstock)

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Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer — a virtually incurable condition. But now, a serendipitous discovery is providing new hope: A sugar molecule associated with the disease, but long thought harmless, known as CA19-9, actually plays an active role in the genesis of pancreatic cancer, researchers say, and could become a new target for therapy. The discovery uncovers new possible ways to identify early-detection markers, as well as hints at innovative treatments for pancreatic cancer.

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