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Hormones and pancreatic cancer
1Department of Pathology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH 03756.
Summary
Hormones like polypeptides and steroids influence pancreatic cancer growth. Targeting hormone receptors with blockers may offer a new strategy for slowing cancer progression.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Pancreatic cells are influenced by polypeptide and steroid hormones, affecting cell division.
- Receptors for these hormones have been identified in pancreatic carcinomas.
- Hormonal manipulation has shown varied effects on pancreatic cancer growth in experimental models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of polypeptide and steroid hormone receptors in pancreatic cancer.
- To explore the potential of targeting these receptors for therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating hormone receptors in pancreatic carcinomas.
- Analysis of experimental data on hormonal influence on pancreatic carcinogenesis and tumor growth.
- Examination of clinical trial outcomes for hormonal and antihormonal therapies.
Main Results:
- Receptors for polypeptide and steroid hormones are present in pancreatic carcinomas.
- Hormone stimulation can promote tumor growth, while receptor antagonists may inhibit it.
- Clinical trials for steroid or antihormonal therapy have not yet yielded advantageous approaches.
Conclusions:
- Polypeptide and steroid hormones may act as promoters or inhibitors in pancreatic carcinogenesis.
- Established pancreatic carcinomas can be influenced by these hormonal factors.
- Receptor blockers represent a potential clinical strategy for slowing pancreatic cancer growth.