Ichilov Launches World-First Clinical Trial for Innovative Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv has initiated the world's first clinical trial testing a novel Israeli treatment targeting a key mutation in pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest cancer types. The trial evaluates SIL204, developed by Israeli biotech company Silaxion, which uses siRNA technology to silence the KRAS gene mutation found in approximately 90% of pancreatic tumors. This mutation drives tumor growth and metastasis, and has long been considered a major challenge in oncology.

The experimental treatment involves direct injection of SIL204 into the tumor combined with standard systemic therapy, aiming to halt disease progression. Ichilov is the first center globally to recruit patients, with an initial cohort of about 18 participants to assess safety. The study plans to expand to additional centers in Israel, Germany, and other countries, eventually including around 166 patients.

Professor Ravit Geva, head of Ichilov’s Oncology Institute and the Digestive System Tumors Center, emphasized the revolutionary potential of this approach, highlighting the multidisciplinary collaboration enabling the trial. Ilan Hadar, CEO of Silaxion, described the trial as a critical step toward determining whether targeted KRAS silencing can become a new therapeutic option for pancreatic cancer patients who currently have limited treatments.

While the trial is in early phases focused on safety and efficacy, its launch marks a significant milestone in pancreatic cancer research and treatment development, with hopes it may improve outcomes for this aggressive disease in the future.