Biomarker clues to catch pancreatic cancer early in cysts
Official title: Biomarker Validation in Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11420592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study from UC San Diego is testing blood and cyst-fluid markers to help tell high-risk pancreatic cysts from low-risk ones so that people with pancreatic cysts can get the right care sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $808,818 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA282272-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11420592 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years or older with pancreatic cysts or at risk for pancreatic cancer, including those undergoing surveillance or surgical resection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without pancreatic cysts or those not eligible for the specified cohorts may not benefit from these biomarkers.
What this research studies
This project aims to improve early detection of pancreatic cancer in people with pancreatic cysts by testing three blood-based biomarkers and one cyst-fluid biomarker. Researchers will use prospective specimen collection and blinded evaluation across three patient groups to rigorously assess marker performance. The study will also explore how these markers work within multi-variable models alongside imaging data to guide clinical decisions. If successful, the biomarkers could help clinicians distinguish cysts that need close surveillance from those that require intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with pancreatic cysts could receive more accurate risk assessments and fewer unnecessary surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown promise for blood- and cyst-fluid biomarkers in pancreatic cancer detection, justifying further validation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simeone, Diane M — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Simeone, Diane M
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.