Project overview

This project is investigating a novel drug delivery system that is capable of locally delivering two chemotherapeutic drugs directly to the site of the tumour with the overall goal of reducing tumour size so that patients can undergo life-saving surgery.

Pancare funded

$878,670 (between 2019-2023)

Research aims

Non-resectable pancreatic cancer is a challenging condition with limited treatment options. In this research, a new drug delivery system was developed to deliver a combination of two chemotherapy drugs, gemcitabine and paclitaxel, directly to the tumour site. The goal is to achieve better tumour control and potentially convert non-resectable cases to resectable cases, offering hope to patients with this aggressive form of cancer.

Results

This implant is designed to be inserted locally (inside the tumour), where it can release high payloads of drugs directly to the tumour; increasing the efficacy of the treatment with a reduction in systemic toxicity that is normally observed with traditional systemic treatment. We have performed extensive preclinical assessment of its efficacy, biodistribution, and safety in small and large animal models (mice and pigs). The project has evolved from an idea to a product that has been patented in Australia, Europe, and China.

Impact

This Pancare-funded project has seen the development of an implantable drug loaded device for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The preclinical studies that we have conducted have revealed that this implantable device is safe and efficacious in a number of animal models.

What's next?

Since surgical resection remains the only potential curative therapy for PDAC, the researchers expect that with further development, the technology will make significant contributions to the overall survival of PDAC patients in the future. Kara and her team are now in the process of applying for large grants to fund a Phase 1 first-in-human clinical trial.