Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026
Reprogramming Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma to Pluripotency
Published on: February 2, 2024
Challenges in developing targeted therapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Devalingam Mahalingam1, Francis Giles
1Institute of Drug Development, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University of Texas Health Science Centre, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA.
Background:
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy remains the cornerstone treatment for advanced pancreatic cancers. Research into the molecular pathogenesis of pancreatic cancers has allowed scientists to understand the complex heterogeneous signals associated with them. Targeting these pathways with chemical inhibitors could improve patient outcome.
Objective:
To describe the molecular heterogeneity typical of pancreatic cancers and to discuss targeted therapies in development, and the challenges facing these agents.
Methods:
We reviewed Pub Med. literature, clinical trial database (clinicaltrials.gov), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) websites.
Conclusions:
Molecular pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer involves multiple pathways and defined mutations. This molecular heterogeneity is a major reason for failure of targeted therapy. Targeting multiple oncogenic pathways using novel targeted therapies could improve patient survival.
Insights
Pancreatic cancer
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a significant cause of cancer mortality in the US.
- Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy is the standard treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer.
- Understanding molecular pathogenesis is key to improving outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the molecular heterogeneity of pancreatic cancers.
- To review emerging targeted therapies.
- To discuss challenges in pancreatic cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PubMed.
- Analysis of clinical trial databases (clinicaltrials.gov).
- Inclusion of data from ASCO and AACR meetings.
Main Results:
- Pancreatic cancer pathogenesis involves multiple complex pathways and mutations.
- Significant molecular heterogeneity exists within pancreatic tumors.
- Current targeted therapies face challenges due to this heterogeneity.
Conclusions:
- Targeting multiple oncogenic pathways is crucial for improving survival.
- Novel targeted therapies are needed to overcome treatment resistance.
- Addressing molecular heterogeneity is essential for advancing pancreatic cancer treatment.
Related Concept Videos
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...