Promising Leap Forward in Research on PSC and Bile Duct Cancer
Promising Leap Forward in Research on PSC and Bile Duct Cancer
Dr Edward Jarman
We are pleased to share an important update from the research project, 'Cell states in the transition from PSC to bile duct cancer,' led by Dr Edward Jarman. This study, which we proudly fund, focuses on a critical area: understanding the changes that occur when PSC progresses to cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a type of bile duct cancer.
The team has been using advanced laboratory modelling to observe this complex process. Through this, they have successfully identified a distinct 'signature' (a pattern of cell changes) that happens during the transition.
A key finding is the identification of a protein called COX2 as a potential marker of this process. In a significant step, Dr Jarman has shown that a subset of PSC patients have cells that are positive for COX2 in their bile ducts. This finding is crucial because it means that what the scientists are seeing in the lab matches what is actually happening inside the bodies of people with PSC.
Dr Jarman notes that this represents an ‘appreciable leap forward’ for the project’s goal to define the mechanisms of PSC-CCA transition and determine whether these early changes are detectable in PSC patients.
This work is an exciting step forward. By defining these mechanisms and identifying markers like COX2, this research may eventually help us to detect early changes in people with PSC who could be at higher risk. This is vital for accelerating the development of new ways to screen, prevent, or treat the progression to CCA.
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:
Building Partnerships: We worked with PSC Partners Seeking a Cure to align our efforts for Rare Disease Day, increasing our global impact for PSC patients
Empowering our Community: We confirmed expert speakers for our 2026 Information Day, ensuring our community can hear the latest medical insights directly from PSC specialists.
Empowering our Community: We met with our dedicated community moderators to ensure our online support spaces remain safe, welcoming, and helpful for everyone.
Improving Care: We progressed a major initiative to standardise PSC care across the UK, advocating for every patient to receive high-quality care.
Organisational Excellence: Our new leadership team met to ensure our resources are focused on activities that have the most impact.
Organisational Excellence: We secured charity places in the 2026 Amsterdam Marathon, expanding our international fundraising opportunities to power future research and support.
Empowering our Community: We filled all of our Great North Run places with amazing fundraisers who are committed to raising crucial funds for our small charity!
Progressing Research: We collaborated with European liver disease experts at ERN-RARE-LIVER to plan PSC-focused sessions for an upcoming international rare disease conference.