Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
Utilizing High Resolution Ultrasound to Monitor Tumor Onset and Growth in Genetically Engineered Pancreatic Cancer Models
Published on: April 7, 2018
Deploying mouse models of pancreatic cancer for chemoprevention studies
Paul J Grippo1, David A Tuveson
1Robert H Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. p-grippo@northwestern.edu
Abstract:
With the advent of mouse models that recapitulate the cellular and molecular pathology of pancreatic neoplasia and cancer, it is now feasible to recruit and deploy these models for the evaluation of various chemopreventive and/or anticancer regimens. The highly lethal nature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) makes multiple areas of research a priority, including assessment of compounds that prevent or suppress the development of early lesions that can transform into PDAC. Currently, there are over a dozen models available, which range from homogeneous preneoplastic lesions with remarkable similarity to human pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms to models with a more heterogeneous population of lesions including cystic papillary and mucinous lesions. The molecular features of these models may also vary in a manner comparable with the differences observed in lesion morphology, and so, navigating the route of model selection is not trivial. Yet, arming the community of cancer investigators with a repertoire of models and the guidance to select relevant models that fit their research themes promises to produce findings that will have clinical relevance.
Insights
New mouse models for pancreatic cancer are available to test treatments. Selecting the right model is crucial for developing effective pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) chemoprevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer.
- Developing effective chemopreventive and anticancer regimens for PDAC is a research priority.
- Mouse models are crucial for studying PDAC development and testing interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the availability and utility of diverse mouse models for pancreatic cancer research.
- To guide researchers in selecting appropriate models for evaluating chemopreventive and anticancer strategies.
- To facilitate the translation of research findings into clinical relevance for PDAC.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing over a dozen available mouse models that mimic human pancreatic neoplasia.
- Characterizing models based on lesion morphology (homogeneous vs. heterogeneous) and molecular features.
- Evaluating models for their suitability in preclinical studies of chemoprevention and anticancer treatments.
Main Results:
- A range of mouse models exist, from those with homogeneous preneoplastic lesions similar to human pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms to heterogeneous lesions.
- Molecular characteristics of these models vary, mirroring differences in lesion morphology.
- Model selection requires careful consideration of specific research objectives.
Conclusions:
- The availability of diverse mouse models significantly advances pancreatic cancer research.
- Strategic selection of mouse models is essential for generating clinically relevant findings in PDAC.
- These models provide a platform for rigorous evaluation of novel chemopreventive and anticancer agents.
Related Concept Videos
02:43Mouse Models of Cancer Study
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
02:43Mouse Models of Cancer Study
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...