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Utilizing High Resolution Ultrasound to Monitor Tumor Onset and Growth in Genetically Engineered Pancreatic Cancer Models
Published on: April 7, 2018
The Use of Genetically Engineered Mouse Models for Studying the Function of Mutated Driver Genes in Pancreatic Cancer
Ching-Chieh Weng1, Yu-Chun Lin1, Kuang-Hung Cheng2,3
1Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Pancreatic cancer is often treatment-resistant, with the emerging standard of care, gemcitabine, affording only a few months of incrementally-deteriorating survival. Reflecting on the history of failed clinical trials, genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) in oncology research provides the inspiration to discover new treatments for pancreatic cancer that come from better knowledge of pathogenesis mechanisms, not only of the derangements in and consequently acquired capabilities of the cancer cells, but also in the aberrant microenvironment that becomes established to support, sustain, and enhance neoplastic progression. On the other hand, the existing mutational profile of pancreatic cancer guides our understanding of the disease, but leaves many important questions of pancreatic cancer biology unanswered. Over the past decade, a series of transgenic and gene knockout mouse modes have been produced that develop pancreatic cancers with features reflective of metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in humans. Animal models of PDAC are likely to be essential to understanding the genetics and biology of the disease and may provide the foundation for advances in early diagnosis and treatment.
Insights
Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) offer new insights into pancreatic cancer's complex biology and treatment resistance. These models are crucial for developing novel therapies and improving early diagnosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Pancreatic cancer exhibits significant treatment resistance, with current therapies like gemcitabine offering limited survival benefits.
- Understanding the complex interplay between cancer cell derangements and the tumor microenvironment is critical for discovering new therapeutic strategies.
- Existing knowledge of pancreatic cancer's mutational profile leaves key biological questions unanswered.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) in advancing pancreatic cancer research.
- To emphasize the need for a deeper understanding of pancreatic cancer pathogenesis, including cellular and microenvironmental factors.
- To explore the potential of GEMMs in driving the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on pancreatic cancer treatment and research methodologies.
- Analysis of the role and development of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) in oncology.
- Focus on mouse models that recapitulate key features of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Main Results:
- GEMMs provide valuable insights into pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and treatment resistance.
- These models mimic human metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), aiding biological and genetic studies.
- GEMMs are instrumental in exploring the tumor microenvironment's role in cancer progression.
Conclusions:
- Genetically engineered mouse models are essential for unraveling pancreatic cancer biology and genetics.
- Advances in understanding pathogenesis through GEMMs can pave the way for improved early diagnosis.
- GEMMs hold significant promise for the development of effective new treatments for pancreatic cancer.
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