Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 20, 2026
Multianimal Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Tumor Measurements in Pancreatic Cancer Mouse Models
Published on: February 3, 2026
Data-Driven Prioritization and Review of Targets for Molecular-Based Theranostic Approaches in Pancreatic Cancer
Marjory Koller1, Elmire Hartmans2, Derk Jan A de Groot3
1Department of Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Molecularly targeted therapeutic and imaging strategies directed at aberrant signaling pathways in pancreatic tumor cells may improve the poor outcome of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). Therefore, relevant molecular targets need to be identified. Methods: We collected publicly available expression profiles of patient-derived normal pancreatic tissue (n = 77) and PDA samples (n = 103). Functional genomic messenger RNA profiling was applied to predict target upregulation on the protein level. We prioritized these targets based on current status of preclinical therapeutic and imaging evaluation in PDA. Results: We identified 213 significantly upregulated proteins in PDA compared with normal pancreatic tissue. We prioritized mucin-1, mesothelin, γ-glutamyltransferase 5, and cathepsin-E as the most interesting targets, because studies already demonstrated their potential for both therapeutic and imaging strategies in literature. Conclusion: This study can assist clinicians and drug developers in deciding which theranostic targets should be taken for further clinical evaluation in PDA.
Insights
This study identifies key molecular targets for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) theranostics. Researchers prioritized mucin-1, mesothelin, γ-glutamyltransferase 5, and cathepsin-E for improved pancreatic cancer treatment and imaging.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has a poor prognosis, necessitating novel therapeutic and imaging strategies.
- Molecularly targeted therapies offer potential improvements by targeting aberrant signaling pathways in PDA cells.
- Identification of relevant molecular targets is crucial for developing effective theranostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and prioritize molecular targets for theranostic strategies in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA).
- To evaluate potential therapeutic and imaging applications of identified targets in PDA.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of publicly available gene expression profiles from normal pancreatic tissue (n=77) and PDA samples (n=103).
- Application of functional genomic mRNA profiling to predict protein-level target upregulation.
- Prioritization of targets based on existing preclinical evaluation for therapeutic and imaging use in PDA.
Main Results:
- Identification of 213 significantly upregulated proteins in PDA compared to normal pancreatic tissue.
- Prioritization of mucin-1, mesothelin, γ-glutamyltransferase 5, and cathepsin-E as key theranostic targets.
- These prioritized targets have demonstrated potential for both therapeutic and imaging applications in existing literature.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a prioritized list of theranostic targets for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA).
- Findings can guide clinicians and drug developers in selecting targets for further clinical evaluation.
- This research aids in advancing targeted therapies and imaging for improved PDA patient outcomes.
