A Phase I/II Study of Induction Conatumumab and Gemcitabine, Followed by Conatumumab, Capecitabine and 3-D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT) With Subsequent Maintenance Therapy for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

RATIONALE: Monoclonal antibodies, such as conatumumab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as gemcitabine hydrochloride and capecitabine, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy may uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Giving conatumumab together with gemcitabine hydrochloride, capecitabine, and radiation therapy may kill more tumor cells.

PURPOSE: This phase I/II trial is studying the side effects and best dose of conatumumab when given together with gemcitabine hydrochloride, capecitabine, and radiation therapy and to see how well they work in treating patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.