Genetic Mutations

146 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.

Screening and Early Detection
April 14, 2023 • 5 Min

Who Should Be Screened For Pancreatic Cancer

Who should be screened for pancreatic cancer? Dr. Allyson Ocean explains how genetic mutations and family history factor into screening.

Research
October 12, 2017 • 5 Min

Tumor Genetics Research Brings Some Answers for Families at High Risk

Professor Gloria Peterson of the Mayo Clinic is working on tumor genetics to help make early detection of pancreatic cancer a reality.

Treatments
December 21, 2020 • 5 Min

This Versus That: Words to Know

Confused about some of the similar-sounding terms you are hearing during pancreatic cancer treatment? Our list of words to know can help.

Research
October 19, 2018 • 4 Min

Which Is the Best Screening Method for Pancreatic Cancer?

Dr. Aimee Lucas outlines the pros and cons of various screening methods that can be used for pancreatic cancer, and who should be using them.

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
June 19, 2023 • 7 Min

Progress in BRCA-Related Cancers Highlighted By the Basser Center

The Basser Center for BRCA hosted a panel discussion of the latest breakthroughs and discoveries for BRCA-related cancers.

Symptoms
February 9, 2022 • 5 Min

Understanding Who Is at High Risk for Pancreatic Cancer

Who is high-risk for pancreatic cancer? Oncologist Dr. Matthew Yurgelun explains high-risk populations and what steps to take if you meet the criteria.

Research
November 1, 2018 • 5 Min

PARP Inhibitors for Pancreatic Cancer Maintenance Treatment

Dr. Kim Reiss Binder is leading a clinical trial of maintenance treatment with the PARP inhibitor rucaparib, for patients who carry the BRCA mutation.

Research
January 9, 2019 • 6 Min

Pancreatic Cancer: 2018 Highlights And Looking Forward to 2019

Dr. Allyson Ocean leads an overview of the new treatments and protocol from 2018 as well as what are the next steps in treatment for 2019.

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
May 23, 2016 • 5 Min

A Liquid Biopsy for Pancreatic Cancer

Dr. Bert Vogelstein and his team at Johns Hopkins are working with a blood test called a liquid biopsy, which tests cells for mutations related to cancer.

Treatments
June 27, 2019 • 5 Min

Questions to Ask Before You Begin Chemotherapy

Do you want to better understand your pancreatic cancer treatment? Dr. Andrew Hendifar outlines important questions to ask before starting chemotherapy.

Research
July 8, 2025 • 6 Min

Treating Cancer By Mutation, Not by Tumor Location

Dr. Conan Kinsey outlines the latest basket trials, which focus on tumor mutation, not the location of the cancer.

Research
July 14, 2017 • 5 Min

An Immunotherapy Game Changer

Immunotherapy with Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is approved for use in cancer patients with certain genetic defects in their tumors.

Treatments
November 1, 2017 • 5 Min

Frequently Asked Questions About Pancreatic Cancer

Have you or someone you love just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer? Learn some basic facts about this disease from our FAQ.