Personalized Medicine in Pancreatic Cancer: The Promise of Biomarkers and Molecular Targeting with Dr. Michael J. Pishvaian

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer, with its alarming rising incidence, is predicted to become the second deadliest type of solid tumor by 2040, highlighting the urgent need for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies. Despite medical advancements, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains about 14%, dropping further when metastasized. This review explores the promise of biomarkers for early detection, personalized treatment, and disease monitoring. Molecular classification of pancreatic cancer into subtypes based on genetic mutations, gene expression, and protein markers guides treatment decisions, potentially improving outcomes. A plethora of clinical trials investigating different strategies are currently ongoing. Targeted therapies, among which those against CLAUDIN 18.2 and inhibitors of Claudin 18.1, have shown promise. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has emerged as a powerful tool for the comprehensive genomic analysis of pancreatic tumors, revealing unique genetic alterations that drive cancer progression. This allows oncologists to tailor therapies to target specific molecular abnormalities. However, challenges remain, including limited awareness and uptake of biomarker-guided therapies. Continued research into the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer is essential for developing more effective treatments and improving patient survival rates.

Keywords: biomarkers; early detection; genetic mutations; germline testing; next-generation sequencing (NGS); pancreatic cancer; personalized medicine.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of the molecular classification of pancreatic cancer subtypes. This figure illustrates the categorization based on genetic mutations, gene expression profiles, and protein markers, which are critical for guiding treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes.

Figure 2

Schematic representation of the diagnostic and treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer. This diagram highlights the role of biomarkers in early detection, the use of molecular classification to guide personalized treatment, and the potential of next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify unique genetic alterations for targeted therapies.