Developing an algorithm for Molecular Tailored Therapy

Experience has shown that a one-size-fits-all approach to treating pancreatic cancer has not been successful. Therefore, efforts are underway to personalize treatment to each patient's tumor's molecular profile – the unique gene and protein alterations that occur to allow the growth and progression of cancer cells. Preliminary evidence suggests that this Molecularly Tailored Therapy (MTT) approach is superior to the standard care for pancreatic cancer patients but rigorous testing is necessary to verify this hypothesis. Dr. Brody and his team of investigators seek to validate and expand upon previous findings by launching an unprecedented clinical trial directly comparing MTT with physicians' choice treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer patients. Additionally, patients' tumor cells will be carefully analyzed before and after treatment to better understand the effects treatments have on the cells, and to try to elucidate and bypass mechanisms by which cancer cells become resistant to treatments.