Major Progress in Developing Simple Blood Test for Earlier Bile Duct Cancer Detection in PSC
Major Progress in Developing Simple Blood Test for Earlier Bile Duct Cancer Detection in PSC
Professor Jesús Bañales and Dr Pedro Rodrigues
We are delighted to share an exciting update on our international research project, which aims to create a simple, non-invasive blood test to help predict and detect cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer, or CCA for short) risk in people with PSC earlier.
In the first half of this global collaboration, led by Dr Pedro Rodrigues and Professor Jesús Bañales, significant progress has been made. The team collected blood samples from over 800 PSC patients from collaborating hospitals and research centres across the world. They measured levels of promising blood proteins (biomarkers) that showed potential in their earlier work. Encouragingly, these biomarkers continue to differentiate between individuals at higher risk and those with early-stage cancer, even within this larger and more diverse cohort. Comparison groups, including those with benign biliary conditions, were also included to enhance the test's accuracy.
This work directly addresses the urgent need for better surveillance tools, a priority we have emphasised along with the rest of the global PSC community. There is immense value in early diagnosis because that is when treatment is most likely to be effective.
The second phase will focus on completing detailed statistical analyses, developing a user-friendly online tool for clinicians, and preparing the findings for publication.
Our long-term goal is to translate these incredible discoveries into a practical, cost-effective blood test that can be used globally, empowering PSC patients and their physicians with better tools to monitor cancer risk and detect CCA when it is most treatable.
Turning Ambition into Action in 2026:
Our Fortnight in Focus
At PSC Support, we want a world without PSC. We work tirelessly behind the scenes to drive research and improve lives. Here is a snapshot of what we've been up to:
Global Research Preparation: We helped develop patient consent documentation for a global PSC research initiative coming to the UK in 2026 so it aligns with UK patient needs.
Representing the Patient Voice: We provided the patient perspective in a panel interview with a major funder regarding a potential new clinical trial for PSC.
Patient-Led Governance: We convened a Patient Panel to review a plans for a new UK study, ensuring the research focuses on the practical needs and safety concerns of people with PSC.
Global Advocacy: We had a late-night meeting to finalise a joint abstract with PSC Partners Seeking a Cure (USA) to present our shared patient survey data at a major European conference.
Regulator Collaboration: We participated in a national workshop with regulators to identify ways to speed up access to new rare disease treatments.
Scientific Leadership: We received excellent editorial feedback on a new textbook chapter about PSC we've been working on with European Reference Network for Rare Liver Diseases experts to improve clinical knowledge of PSC.
Research Governance: We initiated a project to update our research governance protocols and migrate historical research data into our new Grant Management System, ensuring all the research we fund is accurately recorded.
Supporting our Fundraisers: We simplified the process for applying for a Great North Run this year, making it easier for fundraisers and more efficient for PSC Support - win/win!