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Hormones and pancreatic cancer
1Department of Pathology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH 03756.
Abstract:
Several polypeptide hormones have been demonstrated to stimulate or inhibit cell division in the cells of the pancreas. Therefore, receptors for these hormones have been sought in pancreatic carcinomas, and several examples have been reported. In some instances, stimulation of tumor growth by the corresponding peptide has been demonstrated or growth was blocked by a receptor antagonist. Receptors and binding proteins for steroid hormones also have been reported in carcinomas of the pancreas. In experimental carcinogenesis, the growth of preneoplastic lesions and incidence of neoplasms have been influenced by both peptide and steroid hormones in some species. Experimental manipulation of sex steroid hormones has yielded both inhibition and enhancement of growth of human and rat pancreatic cancers, but thus far, clinical trials have failed to document advantageous approaches for steroid or antihormonal therapy. These observations imply that trophic or growth-inhibiting polypeptide and steroid hormones may serve as promoters or inhibitors of carcinogenesis in the pancreas, and may influence the growth of established carcinomas. Receptor blockers may provide a clinical approach for slowing the growth of some cancers.
Insights
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.