WASHINGTON: Researchers have uncovered a novel mechanism behind the ability of the diabetes drug metformin to inhibit the progression of pancreatic cancer.

Researchers found that metformin decreases the inflammation and fibrosis characteristic of the most common form of pancreatic cancer. The findings indicate that this beneficial effect may be most prevalent in overweight and obese patients.

The study by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) focused on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common form of pancreatic cancer. The study was published in PLOS One . — PTI