Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up

Identifying tumor molecules for early pancreatic cancer detection

Official title: Study of Tumour Regulatory Molecules as Markers of Malignancy in Pancreatic Cystic Lesions

Run by Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · NCT03536793 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to find specific molecules in tumors that can help detect pancreatic cancer earlier and more easily for people who might be at risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment180 (estimated)
SponsorHull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Government
Locations1 site (Cottingham, Kingston Upon Hull)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 24, 2018
Main results expectedFebruary 28, 2027
Study endsFebruary 28, 2029
Registry record updatedJune 23, 2026
Trial IDNCT03536793 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with localized pancreatic cancer or cystic lesions that require further diagnostic intervention.

Probably not a fit

Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer that is not amenable to surgical resection may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to improve the early detection of pancreatic cancer by investigating various tumor regulatory molecules. The focus is on identifying markers that can signal the presence of pancreatic cancer or pre-cancerous cysts, which are often difficult to diagnose due to a lack of specific symptoms. By studying these molecules, the researchers hope to develop a less invasive and more effective screening method that could lead to earlier surgical intervention and better patient outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly enhance the early detection of pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have explored similar approaches in cancer detection, but the specific focus on tumor regulatory molecules in pancreatic cancer is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

General

* Capable of giving written informed consent
* Age ≥18 years

Pancreatic Cancer Cohort

\- Diagnosed with localised pancreatic cancer amenable to resection (distal pancreatectomy, total pancreatectomy or Whipple's procedure).

OR - Diagnosed with inoperable localised pancreatic cancer and referred for further management (malignant control subgroup).

Pancreatic Cysts Cohort

\- Presence of cystic lesions where MDT have agreed further diagnostic intervention procedures (including FNA/EUS) necessary.

OR - Patient the MDT have agreed have resectable lesions suspicious for pancreatic malignancy and going to surgery.

Benign Cohort

\- Referral for endoscopic cystogastrostomy for complicated acute pancreatitis characterised by peripancreatic fluid collections and pseudocysts in development or matured (non-resolving and requiring further intervention).

OR

* Referral for cholecystectomy for cholocystitis/chololethiasis. OR
* Patient planned to have endoscopy investigation for dyspepsia (normal control subgroup).

Exclusion Criteria:

General

* Inability to provide written informed consent
* Other known malignant condition, either active or in complete remission ≤5 years
* HIV, hepatitis C, or any other known communicable disease

Where it's running

  • Castle Hill Hospital, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
    Cottingham, Kingston Upon Hull, United Kingdom
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.