A Predictive Noninvasive Single-Nucleotide Variation-Based Biomarker Signature for Resectable Pancreatic Cancer:...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) show promise as noninvasive biomarkers for predicting patient outcomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
• Previous retrospective analyses identified three SNVs in CD44 and CHI3L2 genes associated with increased risk of tumor-related death in PDAC patients.
• Retrospective study limitations necessitate prospective validation for clinical application in guiding PDAC therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively validate the association of identified SNVs with survival in patients with PDAC undergoing pancreatic resection.
• To overcome limitations of retrospective study designs and facilitate clinical translation of SNV biomarkers.
• To assess the utility of SNVs in selecting patients who may benefit most from pancreatic resection.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study including consecutive patients with PDAC undergoing pancreatic resection at three Swiss hospitals.
• SNV genotyping performed on patient blood samples using standard techniques.
• Log-rank and Cox multivariate regression analyses conducted, adjusting for AJCC stage and resection status; 3-year minimum follow-up.

Main Results:

• The study is ongoing, with data collection estimated to conclude in May 2027.
• As of November 2023, 142 out of a required 150 patients have been recruited.
• Genotyping and data analysis are pending completion of patient recruitment; results are anticipated in 2027.

Conclusions:

• This is the first prospective study to validate the CD44 and CHI3L2 SNV-based biomarker signature in PDAC.
• Prospective validation could enable clinical use of this signature as a noninvasive, readily available predictive biomarker for survival post-resection.
• The findings may aid in individualizing treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes for PDAC.