The Translational Genomics Research Institute (Tgen) has been awarded $2.5 million dollars in grant money to investigate a new drug for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.  The drug consists of a immunotherapy drug called pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and a Vitamin D receptor called paracalcitol (Zemplar).     

When functioning properly the immune system will attack tumors. However tumors like those found in pancreatic cancer can evade the immune system, making it unable to recognize it as being a threat.  Keytruda helps to restore the immune system’s response, allowing it to attack the tumor.  Zemplar will aid the body’s immune system in recognizing that the cells are cancerous as opposed to healthy cells. 

Tgen will begin clinical trials right away to test the safety and efficacy of this new drug. The trials will also allow researchers to gain valuable information that may help unlock the mysteries involved in treating other forms of cancer.