Clinical potential of microRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Steele, C.W., Oien, K.A. , McKay, C.J. and Jamieson, N.B. (2011) Clinical potential of microRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Pancreas, 40(8), pp. 1165-1171. (doi: 10.1097/MPA.0b013e3182218ffb)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

Objectives: Aggressive invasion and early metastases are characteristic features of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). More than 90% of patients have surgically nonresectable disease at presentation. Despite increasing knowledge of the genetics of this complex disease, systemic therapies, particularly gemcitabine, have modest clinical benefit and marginal survival advantage. MicroRNAs have been shown to have a role in oncogenesis, invasion, and metastases via epigenetic posttranscriptional gene regulation. Our objective was to discuss the clinical impact of microRNAs within PDAC. Methods: This review details the understanding of microRNAs to date and explores the clinical utility of microRNAs in PDAC. Results: Recent studies have focused on the impact of microRNA expression in PDAC, many of which have shown the diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic utility of microRNA profiling in PDAC identifying numerous potential targets including miR-21, miR-196a, and miR-217. Conclusions: MicroRNA stability in body fluid and tissue samples makes this area one of the most promising for earlier detection of PDAC. Indeed, microRNAs may in the future serve as a long-awaited screening tool for PDAC. Furthermore, microRNA expression profiling in PDAC may be incorporated into modern treatment algorithms to enhance therapeutic management. Equally as exciting is the potential for novel therapeutics directed against these important disease mediators.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Jamieson, Professor Nigel and Oien, Professor Karin
Authors: Steele, C.W., Oien, K.A., McKay, C.J., and Jamieson, N.B.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
Journal Name:Pancreas
ISSN:0885-3177

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record