Researchers have identified a blood protein signature that may help detect pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in people with new-onset diabetes, potentially allowing the cancer to be found at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Using a low-cost blood test based on MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and a machine learning model, the researchers achieved 85% accuracy in distinguishing diabetes caused by pancreatic cancer from long-standing type 2 diabetes.
The team also identified 19 proteins that differed between the two groups. Several proteins linked to inflammation, including FGA, CP, and SERPINA3, were increased in patients with pancreatic cancer, while proteins such as S100A8, PPBP, and TTR were decreased.
The study also found protein changes associated with untreated tumors and early responses after surgery, providing new insights into how pancreatic cancer affects the body.
Although the study involved a relatively small number of patients, the findings suggest this cost-effective blood test could become a useful screening tool. Larger clinical studies are needed to confirm the results before it can be used in routine patient care.