Researchers from Oregon Health and Science University in Portland have developed a groundbreaking blood test called PAC-MANN, which shows promise in the early detection of pancreatic cancer. The test, built by a team led by molecular biologist Jared Fischer and biomedical engineer Jose Montoya Mira, was reported in Science Translational Medicine on February 12. Designed to identify the presence of pancreatic cancer with remarkable accuracy, PAC-MANN could revolutionize how doctors diagnose this lethal disease.
PAC-MANN, an acronym for Protease-ACtivated MAgnetic NaNosensor, utilizes a nanosensor made of a magnetic bead linked to fluorescent molecules. This innovative system detects one of the proteins associated with pancreatic cancer, effectively identifying molecular red flags that are otherwise difficult to spot. In tests conducted on blood samples from 178 individuals, the test correctly identified cancer presence in 40 out of 55 individuals diagnosed with the disease and accurately ruled out the disease in 120 out of 123 individuals without it. These results demonstrate a 90 percent success rate in predicting cancer presence.
Pancreatic cancer is notoriously challenging to diagnose due to its lack of obvious symptoms, often leading to late-stage diagnoses when treatment options are limited. This has contributed to over 50,000 deaths in 2024 alone. Jared Fischer emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating:
“There’s really a desperate need in the field for an early detection test for pancreatic cancer,” – Jared Fischer, a molecular biologist at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.
The PAC-MANN test aims to address this critical need by offering a simple and accessible diagnostic tool that does not require specialized imaging equipment or high-tech facilities. This makes it particularly beneficial for underserved populations and areas lacking the resources of large hospitals. The researchers envision PAC-MANN being used regularly in clinics for screenings akin to annual mammograms.
Furthermore, the test's design allows it to potentially integrate into standard healthcare practices, offering a cost-effective way to catch pancreatic cancer early. By identifying the disease at an earlier stage, PAC-MANN increases the possibility of successful treatment outcomes.
Leave a Reply