Review

Chemoprevention of Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of the Molecular Pathways Involved, and Evidence for the Potential for Chemoprevention
H. Doucas^a, G. Garcea^b, C.P. Neal^a, M.M. Manson^a, D.P. Berry<sup>b

a</sup>Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Biocentre, and
^bDepartment of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK

Address of Corresponding Author

Pancreatology 2006;6:429-439 (DOI: 10.1159/000094560)

  Key Words

• Pancreatic cancer
• Chemoprevention
• NSAIDS
• COX-2
• Polyphenols

  Abstract

Background: Pancreatic cancer has a poor prognosis. The use of drugs or natural agents which inhibit or slow down tumour growth therefore has important potential in the development of future therapies. Methods: A literature search of the PubMed and ISI Web of Science databases was undertaken to review the current data available on the alterations in signalling pathways found in pancreatic carcinogenesis, in order to identify sites that could be targeted by chemopreventive agents. Several agents of particular relevance to pancreatic cancer were identified, and their possible mechanisms of action reviewed. Results: Chemopreventive agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, green tea constituents, and antioxidants have been shown to target various steps in intracellular signalling pathways, particularly those controlling cell proliferation and survival. Work on cell lines and animal models has shown that some of these agents may be able to modulate the growth of pancreatic tumours. Initial clinical trials of some chemopreventives in pancreatic cancer have been undertaken, and have yielded mixed results, prompting the need for further studies. Conclusion: As the molecular pathology of pancreatic cancer becomes better understood, sites of action of chemopreventive substances have been uncovered. Several agents have shown promising results by their ability to inhibit pancreatic carcinogenesis in laboratory studies. If these effects can be successfully translated into human studies then these agents may prove to be valuable adjuvant therapies in the future.

Copyright © 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel and IAP

  Author Contacts

Dr. Helena Doucas
Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Biocentre
University Road
Leicester LE1 7RH (UK)
Tel. +44 116 223 1821, Fax +44 116 223 1840, E-Mail hd24@leicester.ac.uk

  Article Information

Published online: July 13, 2006
Number of Print Pages : 11
Number of Figures : 2, Number of Tables : 1, Number of References : 89