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Published on: February 3, 2026
Non-coding RNAs in pancreatic cancer: challenges and opportunities for clinical application
V Taucher1, H Mangge2, J Haybaeck3
1Institute of Pathology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 25, A-8036, Graz, Austria.
Background:
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease with a dismal prognosis for which new therapeutic strategies are desperately needed. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), may yield new therapeutic concepts for the treatment of PDAC. A vast number of miRNAs, including the well-studied miR-21, miR-155 and miR-34, has been shown to regulate PDAC growth, invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo by targeting members of key signaling pathways. In addition, other miRNAs and lncRNAs, such as HOTTIP and MALAT-1, have been shown to influence the malignant behavior of PDAC cells.
Methods:
Here, we discuss several ncRNAs that may be used either as new therapeutic agents or as targets of new therapeutic agents. Furthermore, we discuss the problem of proper delivery of nucleotide-based agents and novel methods that may be used to circumvent this problem.
Conclusions:
Although the number of reports addressing the role of ncRNAs in PDAC virtually grows by the day, there are still many steps to be taken before the application of ncRNA-based therapies will become reality in clinical practice.
Insights
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), show promise for treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Further research is needed to overcome delivery challenges for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer with poor prognosis.
- Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently required for effective PDAC treatment.
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), encompassing microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), represent a promising area for therapeutic development in PDAC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of ncRNAs as therapeutic agents or targets for PDAC.
- To discuss challenges and novel methods for delivering nucleotide-based therapies.
- To highlight the growing body of research on ncRNAs in PDAC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and discussion of existing research on ncRNAs in PDAC.
- Exploration of specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-21, miR-155, miR-34) and lncRNAs (e.g., HOTTIP, MALAT-1) involved in PDAC.
- Analysis of therapeutic delivery systems for nucleotide-based agents.
Main Results:
- Several ncRNAs have demonstrated roles in regulating PDAC growth, invasion, and metastasis.
- Specific miRNAs and lncRNAs are implicated in the malignant behavior of PDAC cells.
- Delivery of ncRNA-based therapies presents significant challenges, with ongoing development of novel solutions.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs offer potential as novel therapeutic agents or targets for pancreatic cancer.
- Overcoming delivery challenges is crucial for translating ncRNA-based therapies into clinical practice.
- Continued research is essential to advance the clinical application of ncRNA therapies for PDAC.
