WASHINGTON: A small green sponge discovered in dark, icy waters of the Pacific off Alaska could be the first effective weapon against pancreatic cancer, researchers said Wednesday. Pancreatic cancer, with particularly aggressive tumors, is notoriously difficult to treat. Stone discovered the sponge, dull in color, called “Latrunculia austini” in 2005 while on a seabed exploration expedition in Alaska. “This is undoubtedly the most active molecule against pancreatic cancer that we see,” said Hamann. Pancreatic cancer progresses slowly, a circumstance which leaves patients in a tough position as late diagnosis means little chance for successful treatment.

Source: New Strait Times July 27, 2017 00:22 UTC