#Japan #Cancer Research #Tokyo #Cellcloud #CTC Testing

Innovative Cancer Research Collaboration

In a significant stride towards advancing cancer diagnostics, Cellcloud Inc., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has announced the initiation of a collaborative research project with the Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Department at Juntendo University. The focus of this partnership is to investigate the role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in pancreatic cancer, a notorious type of malignancy known for its poor survival rates.

Overview of the Collaborative Research

The research will unite experts from both entities, including Takeshi Ota, the director of Cellcloud’s MicroCTC Advanced Medical Research Institute, and Professor Akio Saiura from Juntendo University. Their combined expertise aims to elucidate the significance of CTCs in the context of pancreatic cancer, which is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making early detection particularly challenging.

Background of the Research Project

Pancreatic cancer is widely recognized as one of the most formidable malignancies, displaying a daunting survival rate among all cancer types. The disease often progresses silently, with patients exhibiting minimal or no symptoms until advanced stages. This complicates early diagnosis and treatment intervention, which is crucial for improving survival odds. It is hoped that by uncovering the relationship between CTCs and disease progression, clinical strategies can be developed to utilize CTCs more effectively in oncology.

Future Prospects and Applications

As this research unfolds, uncovering a clear link between CTCs and disease state could pave the way for various clinical applications, such as early detection of pancreatic cancer, assessing treatment response, predicting patient outcomes, and potentially identifying recurrences sooner. The implications of these findings could revolutionize how healthcare professionals monitor and treat this devastating illness.

Additionally, Cellcloud recently embarked on a similar collaborative research endeavor with the Tochigi Prefectural Cancer Center, focusing on CTCs in bone and soft tissue tumors. By fostering partnerships with various medical institutions, Cellcloud aims to advance the understanding and practical applications of CTCs within clinical settings.

Understanding the MicroCTC Test

CTC stands for Circulating Tumor Cells, which are cancer cells that have shed from the primary tumor into the bloodstream. The MicroCTC test is an innovative procedure that detects these circulating cells in blood, providing critical insights into the patient's cancer status. While its recognition within Japan remains limited, the test has garnered significant attention internationally. There are over 35,000 related academic papers published in Western countries and the test has received approvals similar to the standards set by the FDA in the U.S., solidifying its status as a cutting-edge diagnostic tool in cancer research and therapy.

Cellcloud’s MicroCTC test enhances existing CTC detection methodologies, focusing on high-grade, invasive cancer cells through a specific antibody that identifies the epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers. This approach boasts a remarkable specificity of 94.45%. The test not only increases reliability but also ensures a safer and more convenient way for patients to assess cancer risks, paving the path for better cancer management compared to traditional methods.

About Cellcloud Inc.

Founded in April 2022 under the vision of President Tomoharu Hamano, Cellcloud is committed to pioneering comprehensive cancer solutions. The company operates out of their office located on the 5th floor of the 5th Mizuhobuilding in Shinjuku, Tokyo. For more information, visit their website or their MicroCTC testing portal.

About Juntendo University Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Department

Juntendo University is a leading institution located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, renowned for its progressive research and clinical practices in the medical field. For additional insights, please explore their official site.