Therapeutics Company Announces Collaboration With Oncology Firm
Haystack Oncology and Lisata Therapeutics Collaborate on Evaluating Pancreatic Cancer Therapy Efficacy Using MRD Technology.
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Haystack Oncology announced a research collaboration with Lisata Therapeutics Inc. This partnership aims to leverage Haystack's cutting-edge minimal residual disease (MRD) technology to assess the efficacy of innovative treatments for metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Understanding the Key Players
Haystack Oncology, a subsidiary of Quest Diagnostics Inc., specializes in advanced diagnostic technologies. One of their hallmark innovations is Haystack MRD, a next-generation tumor-informed approach that uses error-corrected circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technology to detect minimal residual disease. This method allows the detection of one ctDNA molecule amidst a million normal DNA molecules, offering an unprecedented level of sensitivity in monitoring cancer progression and treatment response. Lisata Therapeutics is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for advanced solid tumors. With a commitment to pioneering treatments that address unmet medical needs, Lisata is at the forefront of cancer research and therapeutic development.
Under the terms of their agreement, Lisata Therapeutics will utilize Haystack's MRD technology in a clinical study aimed at evaluating certepetide plus chemotherapy as an investigational treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer. This study is part of Lisata's broader effort to develop effective therapeutic options for this particularly aggressive form of cancer.
The cornerstone of this collaboration is the FORTIFIDE study. In this clinical trial, Lisata is assessing the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of their lead product candidate, certepetide, administered as a 4-hour continuous infusion in combination with standard-of-care treatment. The study targets patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) who have shown progression after receiving FOLFIRINOX, a commonly used chemotherapy regimen for pancreatic cancer.
The primary objectives of the FORTIFIDE study are to determine the therapeutic potential of certepetide and to understand its impact when combined with existing treatment protocols. A key aspect of this research involves using Haystack's MRD technology to measure serum ctDNA levels in patients at various stages of the treatment process. By tracking ctDNA, researchers hope to gain valuable insights into the early therapeutic effects of certepetide, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies and outcomes.
The Prevalence and Impact of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most formidable challenges in oncology. According to the American Cancer Society, over 66,000 individuals in the United States are projected to receive a pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2024. Among these cases, metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) accounts for more than 90%, revealing the urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions. mPDAC is known for its rapid progression and resistance to conventional treatments, making it one of the deadliest types of cancer. This highlights the importance of innovative approaches like those being explored in the FORTIFIDE study, which could offer new hope for patients facing this challenging diagnosis.
Lisata Therapeutics has been making strides in their clinical research efforts. Notably, the company recently announced the early completion of enrollment in its Phase 2a BOLSTER trial. This study evaluates certepetide, previously known as LSTA1, as a first-line treatment for cholangiocarcinoma, another challenging cancer type. The successful advancement of the BOLSTER trial reflects Lisata's ongoing commitment to expanding therapeutic options for various solid tumors. The collaboration between Haystack Oncology and Lisata Therapeutics represents a promising advancement in the fight against pancreatic cancer. By integrating sophisticated MRD technology into clinical research, this partnership aims to enhance the precision and effectiveness of cancer treatments. The ability to monitor ctDNA levels with high sensitivity offers a powerful tool for evaluating the early impacts of new therapies, potentially accelerating the development of successful treatments.
The joint efforts of Haystack Oncology and Lisata Therapeutics in utilizing advanced MRD technology signify a critical step forward in cancer research. As they work together to explore innovative treatment options for metastatic pancreatic cancer, their findings could pave the way for more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies. This collaboration shows the importance of combining cutting-edge diagnostic tools with novel therapeutic approaches to tackle some of the most aggressive forms of cancer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any medical concerns or questions.
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