The Role of TP53 and Associated Pathways in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Progression

Mahdi Mokhtari Tabar; Mohammad Ghorbani; Abdolmajid Ghasemian

doi:10.18502/jabs.v15i1.17548

Mahdi Mokhtari Tabar Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
Mohammad Ghorbani Department of Hematology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
Abdolmajid Ghasemian Noncommunicable Diseases Research ‏Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jabs.v15i1.17548

Keywords: Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma, Suppressor Proteins, Gene therapy, Targeted Therapy

Abstract

The pancreas, an organ integral to both exocrine and endocrine functions, plays a pivotal role in the digestive system and blood glucose regulation. Among the various malignancies affecting this organ, pancreatic cancer—particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)—stands out as one of the deadliest forms, claiming countless lives annually. The high mortality rate is primarily attributed to the absence of reliable early detection methods, rendering PDAC the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Genetic aberrations, such as mutations in KRAS, CDKN2A, TP53, and SMAD4, are observed in up to 90% of PDAC cases. These findings underscore the urgent need for advanced research into genetic diagnostics and treatment strategies. This review not only explores the biological significance of the pancreas but also investigates the genetic underpinnings of PDAC. Furthermore, contemporary therapeutic modalities, with a particular emphasis on gene therapy and targeted treatment approaches, are comprehensively analyzed.