The Foundation has launched the phase 2 Nab-PIPAC study, which will explore the results of administering the chemotherapeutic agent Nab-paclitaxel intraperitoneally through pressurized aerosol (PIPAC) on peritoneal metastases from pancreatic cancer. The experimental treatment will be performed laparoscopically in a series of sessions over a six-month period, in conjunction with standard therapy.

“This is a phase 2 study,” explains Dr. Andrea Di Giorgio, co-Principal Investigator of the study and head of the Integrated Treatments of Advanced Peritoneal Carcinomatosis, Peritoneal and Retroperitoneal Surgery at the Policlinico Gemelli. “The real innovation is the intraperitoneal use of Nab-paclitaxel through PIPAC, a drug already used for systemic treatment and active against pancreatic cancer. The study, which will be conducted at the Gemelli, will enroll a total of 38 patients. In this regard,” Dr. Di Giorgio continues, “we invite patients with peritoneal metastases from pancreatic cancer to discuss this study with their oncologist and contact us ([email protected]) if interested in participating.”

“Nab-PIPAC is a study,” emphasizes Prof. Giampaolo Tortora, director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center and co-Principal Investigator of the study, “that should provide solid evidence to understand how this technologically innovative approach can contribute to improving the activity of chemotherapeutic drugs currently used to treat pancreatic tumors.”
This study also involves the I-PCC network directly – the Italian communit

y that brings together scientists in the field of basic and translational research on pancreatic cancer – which aims to identify new markers and vulnerabilities of the tumor. This community is supported and promoted by the NADIA VALSECCHI ONLUS FOUNDATION (www.fondazionevalsecchi.org; e-mail: [email protected]).