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Cellular and molecular aspects of pancreatic cancer

A Gharibi1, Y Adamian1, J A Kelber1

  • 1Developmental Oncogene Laboratory, Department of Biology, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA 91330, USA.

Acta Histochemica
|February 13, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a deadly cancer with a low survival rate. This review covers progress and remaining challenges in treating this aggressive malignancy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research
  • Translational Medicine

Background:

  • Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer affecting approximately 50,000 individuals annually.
  • PDAC has the lowest 5-year survival rate among all cancers (~7%) due to diagnostic limitations, aggressive nature, and lack of targeted therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the advancements made in understanding and treating PDAC over recent decades.
  • To identify persistent cellular and molecular obstacles hindering translational progress in PDAC therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of studies on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
  • Analysis of historical and current research on PDAC diagnostics, disease biology, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Significant progress has been made in understanding PDAC biology.
  • Key cellular and molecular hurdles continue to impede effective treatment development and patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Despite advances, substantial challenges remain in overcoming PDAC's aggressiveness and limited therapeutic options.
  • Further research into cellular and molecular mechanisms is crucial for improving translational outcomes in pancreatic cancer treatment.
Keywords:
Cancer progressionGEMMsKinasesMetabolism and desmoplasiaPancreatic cancerTherapy resistance

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