Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 9, 2025
An Orthotopic Resectional Mouse Model of Pancreatic Cancer
Published on: September 24, 2020
Pancreas cancer: Therapeutic trials in metastatic disease
James W Smithy1, Eileen M O'Reilly1
1Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA.
Abstract:
Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major cause of cancer-related mortality in 2021. Cytotoxic therapies are the therapeutic mainstay for PDAC. The recent approval of olaparib as maintenance therapy for germline BRCA1/2-mutated PDAC and pembrolizumab for mismatch repair deficient PDAC represent molecularly targeted approaches for this disease. Investigational therapeutic strategies include targeting the stroma, metabolism, tumor microenvironment, and the immune system, and selected approaches are reviewed herein.
Insights
Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a leading cause of cancer death. While cytotoxic therapies are standard, targeted treatments like olaparib and pembrolizumab show promise for specific PDAC subtypes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a significant cause of cancer mortality.
- Current treatments primarily rely on cytotoxic therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and investigational therapeutic strategies for metastatic PDAC.
- To highlight molecularly targeted approaches and emerging treatment modalities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of established and experimental treatments for PDAC.
- Analysis of recent advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Olaparib and pembrolizumab are approved for specific PDAC genetic profiles (BRCA1/2 mutations, mismatch repair deficiency).
- Investigational strategies focus on stromal targeting, metabolic pathways, tumor microenvironment modulation, and immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Molecularly targeted therapies offer new avenues for PDAC treatment.
- Further research into novel therapeutic strategies is crucial for improving patient outcomes in PDAC.
