The Role of MicroRNA in the Diagnosis, Prognosis and Response to Treatment in Pancreatic Cancer
Aberrant miRNA production has been linked to a wide range of human cancers and shown to play important roles in their genesis and growth. These miRNA can be detected in the blood and tumors of patients with cancer. The investigators hypothesize that the detection of certain miRNAs present in the blood/serum of patients with pancreatic cancer may be important to the early diagnosis of the disease. Furthermore, the investigators hypothesize that miRNA detection in PC patients will yield prognostic information and help predict the response to treatment.
• Have biopsy proven adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
• Have initially inoperable disease, classified as either locally advanced or metastatic disease
‣ Recurrent disease after a Whipple procedure is allowed
⁃ Patients who are able to undergo resection after neoadjuvant therapy will continue to be followed after resection
• Have radiographically measurable disease
• Have an ECOG performance status of 2 or less
• Be willing to contribute the required information and specimens
• Provide written signed consent to participate