This latest study proved DEP gemcitabine to be more effective than the current standard pancreatic cancer therapy, which is a drug called Gemzar used either alone or in combination with Abraxane and developed by U.S. pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. Lilly's Gemzar had peak sales of US$1.7 billion, and the company's market cap is valued at US$108 billion. According to Starpharma, DEP gemcitabine showed "significantly enhanced anti-tumour activity" when compared to Gemzar — both by itself and in combination with Abraxane. Starpharma CEO Dr Jackie Fairley said: "We are delighted to be progressing yet another internal candidate through the development and to have achieved such impressive results in this important cancer type with otherwise limited options for patients."