New Pancreatic Cancer Drug Shows Promise in Lab Study
The drug candidate PRP helped re-sensitize resistant cancer cells in a new study, with human trials planned for 2027.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Cancer
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New preclinical research suggests that a drug candidate called PRP could help re-sensitize chemotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer cells. This experimental formulation is currently in the development phase, with initial human testing not expected until 2027.
Why it matters
Chemotherapy resistance remains a significant barrier to effective treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer. These findings explore a new approach to overcoming this resistance, though the data are preliminary and currently limited to laboratory models.
This preclinical study utilized models of acquired chemotherapy resistance to evaluate the experimental drug PRP. Findings include a 50-54% reduction in cell proliferation and up to 59% suppression of long-term clonogenic survival, though these early results require validation in human trials.
The players
Propanc Biopharma
A pharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for cancer, particularly those targeting chemotherapy resistance.
The details
The drug candidate, PRP, utilizes a 1:6 intravenous formulation of the proenzymes trypsinogen and chymotrypsinogen. Researchers found that the treatment modulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition and targets cancer stem cells, effectively reducing markers associated with tumor progression like Vimentin and Snail while increasing E-cadherin expression. By reversing these cellular changes, the treatment aims to make resistant cancer cells vulnerable to chemotherapy agents again.
Timeline
October 26, 2026: Propanc Biopharma announced the new preclinical research data.
Q1 2027: A Phase 1b first-in-human clinical study is scheduled to begin.
Health Landscape
Pancreatic cancer treatment currently struggles with high rates of chemotherapy resistance, limiting long-term patient survival. This research joins a broader, ongoing effort in oncology to develop resistance-modulating therapies that aim to restore the effectiveness of standard treatments.
This development is in the early research phase and does not currently impact clinical care or treatment options for patients. It is worth discussing with an oncologist if you have questions about how research into overcoming chemotherapy resistance may evolve in the future.
The takeaway
While this experimental drug shows promise in laboratory models, it remains years away from potential clinical use. Patients currently managing cancer should continue to focus on existing evidence-based treatments and discuss any new clinical trial opportunities with their physician.
What happens next
Propanc Biopharma expects to initiate a Phase 1b clinical trial in Q1 2027, which aims to enroll up to 50 patients with advanced solid tumors.
Further reading
For more information on the latest developments in oncology, visit our Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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