Therapeutic trends in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

S. R. Chandana, H. M. Babiker, D. Mahadevan

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Prognosis remains dismal for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Genomics and proteomics have depicted heterogeneity in PDAC. Collectively, this information could be useful in improving diagnosis, prognosis, modalities of therapy, treatment responses, deciphering drug resistance and new drug development. Areas covered: We describe major advances in the cellular and molecular subtypes based on next-generation sequencing and their predictive and prognostic value in PDAC patients. We review aberrant genes involving in defined cellular processes in PDAC. Finally, the current state of drug development with novel investigational agents targeting cell fate, cell survival, genomic instability, tumor-stroma, and immune checkpoints are discussed. Expert opinion: Molecular techniques have revealed distinct driver mutations in PDAC. Common genes and cellular processes are dysregulated in the pathogenesis of PDAC. These cellular processes categorized by aberrant pathways include control cell fate, genome maintenance, and cell survival. Dysregulation of the tumor microenvironment promotes an intense fibrosis and immune suppression that play a major role in drug resistance. New information on tumor biology has led to the development of targeted/stromal therapies, immunotherapies or combinations with current chemotherapy in PDAC. New drug development targeting multiple hallmarks of PDAC we hope will positively impact the quality and survival of PDAC patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)161-177
Number of pages17
JournalExpert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
Volume28
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
  • driver mutations
  • immunotherapy
  • molecular subtypes
  • precision medicine
  • targeted therapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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