Thomas Jefferson University
Award-Winning Pancreatic Cancer Diagnostic
Monday, May 14, 2012
Embassy Suites, Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania (directions)
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About
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The Thomas Jefferson University, through Hwyda Arafat, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Surgery and co-Director of the Jefferson Pancreatic, Biliary and Related Cancers Center, and Mon-Li Chu, PhD, Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, received an award from the University City Science Center's "QED Proof of Concept Program" for breakthrough work on a diagnostic test for pancreatic cancer. This new tool is poised to be the first clinically reliable test for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), the primary form of pancreatic cancer, which currently has no reliable system for early detection.
PDA is the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with the number of diagnosed cases virtually equaling the number of deaths. Based upon data showing higher levels of COL6A3 protein in PDA patients, Jefferson's Proof-of-Concept plan is proposing to conduct a study with a larger patient cohort to develop new antibodies that could be used for a diagnostic assay.
The award bridges the funding gap between research grants and commercial seed investment enabling further development of a reliable diagnostic for PDA which is expected to save lives through early intervention, and to have economic benefits by reducing unneeded surgeries, laparoscopic biopsies and wrong diagnoses.
The Jefferson team is receiving input from QED Business Advisors (and PCCI members) Chris Blaxland, Dave Hesson and Don Skerrett and is in discussions with a number of possible licensing candidates.
3 Major Issues
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Licensing Strategy: What is the proper point to take this research for licensing?
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Commercialization Strategy: How long would it take for such technology to reach the market?
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Future Development: What should be our strategy going forward for migrating to a therapeutic and then to a vaccine.
Program:
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6:30 - Cocktails & Dinner (Cash bar and special 2-entree buffet menu)
8:00 - , will deliver the Company's "Elevator" Pitch to the Group
8:20 - A Panel will address 3 Major Issues for the Company
9:00 - Open discussion: members and guests
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