SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — August 16, 2025 — Groundbreaking advances in pancreatic cancer treatment are emerging from the HonorHealth Research Institute, where researchers are pioneering an innovative approach that combines chemo-therapeutic agents with cutting-edge ultrasound technology. This novel technique is designed to combat locally advanced pancreatic tumors, which, while contained within the pancreas, are often too large or invasive to be surgically removed safely. By enhancing drug delivery with ultrasonic methods, this research holds the promise of transforming the prospects for patients who previously had limited treatment options.
At the heart of this experimental therapy is Acoustic Cluster Therapy (ACT), an intricate process leveraging microscopic clusters composed of gas bubbles and oil droplets, collectively known as PS101. This newly conceptualized agent works in conjunction with a modified version of FOLFIRINOX, a robust, FDA-approved chemotherapy regimen comprised of four distinct drugs: leucovorin calcium (folinic acid), fluorouracil, irinotecan hydrochloride, and oxaliplatin. Together, these elements synergize to target and incapacitate malignant cells with unprecedented precision.
The clinical pilot trial underway at HonorHealth Research Institute marks the first global site to administer this combined treatment specifically for pancreatic cancer. The methodology begins with intravenous infusion of PS101, allowing the tiny clusters to circulate and permeate throughout the body, reaching the vicinity of the pancreatic tumor. This step sets the stage for the subsequent ultrasonic intervention that plays a vital role in enhancing the therapeutic effect.
Once PS101 is distributed through the bloodstream, clinicians apply a high-frequency ultrasound directed at the tumor site. The acoustic energy causes the microclusters within PS101 to coalesce into larger bubbles, which temporarily lodge within the capillaries—the smallest blood vessels responsible for gas exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide. This physical entrapment localizes the drug-laden bubbles precisely where the tumor demands the greatest therapeutic concentration.
Following this initial acoustic seeding, the treatment protocol employs low-frequency ultrasound waves. These sound waves induce oscillations in the lodged ACT bubbles, effectively agitating and destabilizing them. This mechanical action facilitates increased permeability of the tumor’s vasculature and surrounding tissue, vastly improving the penetration and uptake of chemotherapy. As a result, more of the drug reaches the malignant cells while minimizing systemic exposure and collateral damage to healthy tissues.
Dr. Erkut Borazanci, the medical director of the Oncology Research Division at HonorHealth, articulates the significance of this modality: “By enhancing drug delivery directly to the tumor microenvironment without increasing systemic toxicity, we potentially shift the treatment paradigm. Shrinking previously inoperable tumors could open the door for surgical resection, the intervention most correlated with long-term survival.”
The success of this approach relies not only on the innovative engineering of PS101 and the precise application of ultrasound but also on the seamless collaboration across multiple medical disciplines. Interventional radiologists, ultrasound technicians, oncologists, and imaging specialists all bring their expertise to bear during each treatment session. This multidisciplinary teamwork ensures the intricate procedures are carried out with maximal safety and efficacy, benefiting the patients who face formidable challenges due to their diagnosis.
Historically, pancreatic cancer with locally advanced tumors has remained one of the deadliest malignancies, with median survival ranging between 14 and 20 months despite aggressive chemotherapy protocols. Dr. Borazanci remains cautiously optimistic about this trial due to the encouraging precedent established by ACT in treating liver tumors originating from colorectal metastases. These earlier successes provide a proof-of-concept that ACT can potentiate chemotherapy’s impact in deep-seated, difficult-to-access solid tumors.
The pioneering team at HonorHealth, including investigators Erin Pierce, Matt Siegel, Katie Morgan, and S. Danielle Legrand, alongside Dr. Borazanci, will soon share their findings at the highly anticipated “Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Research — Emerging Science Driving Transformative Solutions” conference. This event, hosted by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) from September 28 to October 1 in Boston, provides a global platform to disseminate innovative scientific results and catalyze further research collaborations.
Erin Pierce, MSN, APRN, FNP-C and associate clinical investigator leading the study’s abstract, highlights the patient-centered potential of the research: “This method offers a realistic opportunity for patients with borderline or locally advanced pancreatic cancer to qualify for surgery, which significantly improves survival outcomes. The integration of novel therapeutic mechanisms exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of cancer care.”
In sum, the developments emerging from HonorHealth Research Institute represent a remarkable fusion of biomedical engineering, pharmacology, and clinical oncology. By harnessing the physical dynamics of ultrasound-mediated microbubbles with the pharmaceutical potency of chemotherapeutic agents, this treatment strategy may redefine what is achievable for pancreatic cancer patients worldwide.
Those interested in participating or learning more about ongoing clinical trials at HonorHealth Research Institute are encouraged to contact the research team by calling 833-354-6667 or emailing clinicaltrials@HonorHealth.com. Such innovations hold the promise not only of enhanced treatments but also of transforming pancreatic cancer into a more manageable disease.
HonorHealth Research Institute continues to reaffirm its position as a leader in medical innovation, offering patients access to tomorrow’s transformative therapies today. Situated in Scottsdale, Arizona, this institute draws upon national collaborations to deliver pioneering treatments and elevate patient care standards across multiple disease states.
Subject of Research: People
Article Title: Novel Ultrasound-Enhanced Chemotherapy Shows Promise for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
News Publication Date: August 16, 2025
Web References: https://www.honorhealth.com/company/research-institute
Keywords: Health and medicine, Clinical medicine
