Genetic Mutations

370 articles

Having a genetic mutation can make all the difference in treatment choices, and even longer-term survival. Learn more about the importance of genetic testing and molecular profiling.

Research
March 20, 2024 • 5 Min

For Families at Risk, Remote Education May Be Key in Improving Genetic Testing Uptake

What’s the best way to educate families at risk for pancreatic cancer about genetic testing? Dr. Sapna Syngal discusses the results of the GENERATE study.

Research
March 21, 2022 • 5 Min

New Study to Get More Minorities Involved in Genetic Testing

Dr. Nicolette Rodriguez leads the REGENERATE study to find the best ways to get more Black and Latinx Americans genetic testing for cancer.

Symptoms
September 20, 2021 • 4 Min

Precursors to Pancreatic Cancer: Are There Any Signs to Watch Out For?

Dr. Venkata Akshintala outlines some of the precursors to pancreatic cancer that people should look out for.

Research
August 27, 2019 • 5 Min

Platinum-Based Therapy Can Significantly Improve Survival for Some Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Dr. Michael Pishvaian explains how platinum-based therapy can improve the survival of pancreatic cancer patients with a specific mutation.

Research
February 4, 2019 • 5 Min

Genetic Testing for All Pancreatic Cancer Patients

A study by Dr. Gloria Petersen’s research team has led to an official recommendation that all pancreatic cancer patients get genetic testing.

Research
April 5, 2018 • 4 Min

Genetic Testing Can Help Those You Love

Dr. Fay Kastrinos, director of the Muzzi Mirza Pancreatic Cancer Prevention and Genetics Program at Columbia University Medical Center, explains the value of genetic testing for cancer prevention and treatment.

Research
November 8, 2016 • 4 Min

BRCA’s Role in Pancreatic Cancer Investigated

The relationship between BRCA and pancreatic cancer, and how that affects treatment, is the focus of clinical trials looking at PARP inhibitors.

Research
July 5, 2018 • 4 Min

A Potential Role for PARP Inhibitors in Pancreatic Cancer

Dr. Michael Pishvaian leads research into the possible role of PARP inhibitors in treating pancreatic cancer patients with certain genetic mutations.

Research
June 27, 2017 • 2 Min

A Maintenance Trial for Patients with BRCA or PALB2 Mutations

A clinical trial examines whether the PARP inhibitor rucaparib can work as a maintenance drug for pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA or PALB2 mutations.

Research
November 12, 2019 • 6 Min

Using Tumor Tissue Samples to Break Down Assumptions About Pancreatic Cancer

Dr. Christine Iacobuzio-Donahue uses tumor tissue samples to study how pancreatic cancer tumors develop, so she can find ways to stop the disease.

Survivor Stories
October 9, 2024 • 6 Min

Genetic Testing Guided My Treatment Plan

Ryan Dwars already knew there was pancreatic cancer in his family so when he was diagnosed he asked for genetic testing right away.

Page
June 20, 2022 • 1 Min

Glossary

Our extensive collection of web-based and other resources for patients, families, and caregivers provides easy access to information on a wide variety of subjects related to pancreatic cancer.

Research
July 27, 2017 • 4 Min

Most Cancer Mutations Are Random DNA Mistakes

In a large study, Dr. Bert Vogelstein of Johns Hopkins found that a majority of cancers, including pancreatic cancer, are caused by random mutations of DNA.

Research
January 12, 2022 • 5 Min

New Study Aims to Reduce Recurrence Risk for Select Patients

Dr. Kim A. Reiss is leading a study of the PARP inhibitor olaparib to delay or prevent a recurrence of surgically removed pancreatic cancer.

Research
October 21, 2016 • 5 Min

Can a Pancreatic Cancer Screening Test Become a Reality?

Dr. Felice Schnoll-Sussman discusses screening options for pancreatic cancer and criteria for people who might want to get screened.