A Molecule Long Thought Harmless Plays a Role in Pancreatic Cancer, Could Hint at Cure

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer — a virtually incurable condition. But now, a serendipitous discovery is providing new hope: A sugar molecule associated with the disease, but long thought harmless, known as CA19-9, actually plays an active role in the genesis of pancreatic cancer, researchers say, and could become a new target for therapy. The discovery uncovers new possible ways to identify early-detection markers, as well as hints at innovative treatments for pancreatic cancer.