Family history is a significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer: results from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Comprehensive insights into pancreatic cancer treatment approaches and cutting-edge nanocarrier solutions: from pathology to nanomedicine

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. It is characterized by poor prognosis, high mortality, and recurrence rates. Various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are associated with pancreatic cancer incidence. Available treatments for pancreatic cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, supportive care, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, the survival rates for PC are very low. Regrettably, despite efforts to enhance prognosis, the survival rate of pancreatic cancer remains relatively low. Therefore, it is essential to investigate new approaches to improve pancreatic cancer treatment. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying existing gaps, this article provides a comprehensive overview of risk factors, pathology, conventional treatments, targeted therapies, and recent advancements in nanocarriers for its treatment, along with various clinical trials and patents that justify the safety and efficacy of innovative carriers for drug delivery systems. Ultimately, this review underscores the potential of these innovative formulations to improve outcomes and contribute significantly to the advancement of Pancreatic Cancer treatment. Together, these insights highlight nano-formulations as a promising frontier for effectively treating Pancreatic Cancer.

Metabolic syndrome is linked to most cancers incidence

Since many people die of either cancers or cardiovascular diseases worldwide, it is important to find the clinical pitfall that provokes cardiovascular diseases and cancer overall. Since metabolic syndrome (MetS) is largely linked to cardiovascular diseases, we have come to consider that MetS, even in its early state, may prime the occurrence of cancers overall. Indeed, the importance of MetS in causing pancreatic cancer has been proved using our large medical database. We analyzed Japanese healthcare and clinical data in 2005, who were followed up until 2020 and we examined the incidence of major cancers. At the enrollment, we examined the presence or absence of MetS judged by either Japanese criteria or NCEP/ATPIII. Of 2.7 million subjects without missing data, 102,930; 200,231; 237,420; 63,435; 76,172; and 2,422 subjects suffered lung, stomach, colon, liver and prostate cancer, respectively, and myelogenous leukemia during follow-up. MetS, defined by Japanese criteria, increased (p < 0.005 each) the incidence of cancer with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.03-1.47 for lung, stomach, colon, liver, prostate cancers, and myelogenous leukemia. According to Japanese criteria, cancer incidence in the pre-stage MetS group was comparable to the MetS group. The results were almost identical when we defined MetS using NCEP ATP III. Taken together, we conclude that MetS is linked to majority of cancers.

Understanding familial risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly disease that is the result of an accumulation of sequential genetic alterations. These genetic alterations can either be inherited, such as pathogenic germline variants that are associated with an increased risk of cancer, or acquired, such as somatic mutations that occur during the lifetime of an individual. Understanding the genetic basis of inherited risk of PDAC is essential to advancing patient care and outcomes through improved clinical surveillance, early detection initiatives, and targeted therapies. In this review we discuss factors associated with an increased risk of PDAC, the prevalence of genetic variants associated with an increased risk in patients with PDAC, estimates of PDAC risk in carriers of pathogenic germline variants in genes associated with an increased risk of PDAC. The role of common variants in pancreatic cancer risk will also be discussed.

Familial Pancreatic Cancer Research: Bridging Gaps in Basic Research and Clinical Application

Familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) represents a significant yet underexplored area in pancreatic cancer research. Basic research efforts are notably limited, and when present, they are predominantly centered on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations due to the scarcity of other genetic variants associated with FPC, leading to a limited understanding of the broader genetic landscape of FPC. This review examines the current state of FPC research, focusing on the molecular mechanisms driving pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. It highlights the role of homologous recombination (HR) and its therapeutic exploitation via synthetic lethality with PARP inhibitors in BRCA1/2-deficient tumors. The review discusses various pre-clinical models of FPC, including conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell lines, patient-derived organoids (PDOs), patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), as well as new advancements in FPC research.

Early detection of pancreatic cancer in the era of precision medicine

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality and it is often diagnosed at advanced stages due to non-specific clinical presentation. Disease detection at localized disease stage followed by surgical resection remains the only potentially curative treatment. In this era of precision medicine, a multifaceted approach to early detection of PDAC includes targeted screening in high-risk populations, serum biomarkers and "liquid biopsies", and artificial intelligence augmented tumor detection from radiologic examinations. In this review, we will review these emerging techniques in the early detection of PDAC.

How a population-based cohort of men estimate lifetime risk of prostate cancer in a survey before entering a prostate cancer screening trial in Sweden?

OBJECTIVES

Investigating men's perceived lifetime risk of prostate cancer.

DESIGN

Survey-based study to men invited for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening in the GÖTEBORG-2 trial between September 2015 and June 2020.

SETTING

38 775 men in the Gothenburg area, Sweden, were invited for PSA-testing and participated in a survey.

PARTICIPANTS

17 980 men participated in PSA-testing, of whom 13 189 completed the survey. In addition, 1264 men answered the survey only.

INTERVENTIONS

Before having the PSA-test, men answered an electronic survey and estimated their lifetime risk of receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis on a visual analogue scale from 0% to 100%.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the median lifetime risk estimation, which was compared with Wilcoxon test to an anticipated lifetime risk of 20% (based on GÖTEBORG-1 trial). The secondary outcome was to determine factors associated with risk estimation in a multivariable linear regression model: previous prostate examination, family history, physical exercise, healthy diet, comorbidity, alcohol consumption, smoking, education level, marital status, urinary symptoms and erectile dysfunction.

RESULTS

Among PSA-tested men, the median estimated lifetime risk of prostate cancer was 30% (IQR 19% to 50%), corresponding to a 10 percentage-points higher estimation compared with the anticipated risk (p<0.001). Family history of prostate cancer, moderate to severe urinary symptoms and mild to moderate erectile dysfunction were associated with >5 percentage-points higher risk estimation. Similar results were obtained for non-PSA-tested men.

CONCLUSIONS

Most men overestimated their prostate cancer risk which underscores the importance of providing them accurate information about prostate cancer.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN94604465.

The role of germline BRCA1 & BRCA2 mutations in familial pancreatic cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Familial Pancreatic Cancer (FPC) presents a notable risk, with 3-10% of pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases having a family history. Studies link FPC to syndromes like HBOC, suggesting BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations play a role. BRCA gene functions in DNA repair impact FPC management, influencing sensitivity to therapies like PARP inhibitors. Identifying mutations not only aids FPC treatment but also reveals broader cancer risks. However, challenges persist in selectively applying genetic testing due to cost constraints. This Systematic Review focuses on BRCA1/BRCA2 significance in FPC, diagnostic criteria, prognostic value, and limitations.

METHOD

Original articles published from 2013 to January 2023 were sourced from databases such as Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect. Inclusion criteria comprised observational cohort or diagnostic studies related to the role of BRCA1/2 mutation in correlation to familial pancreatic cancer (FPC), while article reviews, narrative reviews, and non-relevant content were excluded. The assessment of bias used ROBINS-I, and the results were organized using PICOS criteria in a Google spreadsheet table. The systematic review adhered to the PRISMA 2020 checklist.

RESULT

We analyzed 9 diagnostic studies encompassing 1325 families and 4267 patients from Italy, USA, and Poland. Despite the limitation of limited homogenous PICO studies, our findings effectively present evidence. BRCA1/2 demonstrates benefits in detecting first-degree relatives FPC involvement with 2.26-10 times higher risk. These mutation findings also play an important role since with the BRCA1/2 targeted therapy, Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase inhibitors (PARP) may give better outcomes of FPC treatment. Analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 administration's impact on odds ratio (OR) based on six and five studies respectively. BRCA1 exhibited non-significant effects (OR = 1.26, P = 0.51), while BRCA2 showed significance (OR = 1.68, P = 0.04). No heterogeneity observed, indicating consistent results. Further research on BRCA1 is warranted.

CONCLUSION

Detecting the BRCA1/2 mutation gene offers numerous advantages, particularly in its correlation with FPC. For diagnostic and prognostic purposes, testing is strongly recommended for first-degree relatives, who face a significantly higher risk (2.26-10 times) of being affected. Additionally, FPC patients with identified BRCA1/2 mutations exhibit a more favorable prognosis compared to the non-mutated population. This is attributed to the availability of targeted BRCA1/2 therapy, which maximizes treatment outcomes.

Crosstalk of nervous and immune systems in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a highly malignant tumor known for its extremely low survival rate. The combination of genetic disorders within pancreatic cells and the tumor microenvironment contributes to the emergence and progression of this devastating disease. Extensive research has shed light on the nature of the microenvironmental cells surrounding the pancreatic cancer, including peripheral nerves and immune cells. Peripheral nerves release neuropeptides that directly target pancreatic cancer cells in a paracrine manner, while immune cells play a crucial role in eliminating cancer cells that have not evaded the immune response. Recent studies have revealed the intricate interplay between the nervous and immune systems in homeostatic condition as well as in cancer development. In this review, we aim to summarize the function of nerves in pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the significance to investigate the neural-immune crosstalk during the advancement of this malignant cancer.

Risk of Syndrome-Associated Cancers Among First-Degree Relatives of Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma With Pathogenic or Likely Pathogenic Germline Variants

Importance

Increased cancer risk in first-degree relatives of probands with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC probands) who carry pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline variants (PGVs) in cancer syndrome-associated genes encourages cascade genetic testing. To date, unbiased risk estimates for the development of cancers on a gene-specific basis have not been assessed.

Objective

To quantify the risk of development of PDAC and extra-PDAC among first-degree relatives of PDAC probands who carry a PGV in 1 of 9 cancer syndrome-associated genes-ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and CDKN2A.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case series focused on first-degree relatives of PDAC probands carrying PGVs in specific cancer syndrome-associated genes. The cohort comprised clinic-ascertained patients enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Biospecimen Resource for Pancreas Research registry with germline genetic testing. In total, 234 PDAC probands carrying PGVs were drawn from the prospective research registry of 4562 participants who had undergone genetic testing of cancer syndrome-associated genes. Demographic and cancer-related family histories were obtained by questionnaire. The data were collected from October 1, 2000, to December 31, 2021.

Main Outcomes and Measures

For the PDAC probands, the genetic test results of the presence of PGVs in 9 cancer syndrome-associated genes were obtained by clinical testing. Cancers (ovary, breast, uterus or endometrial, colon, malignant melanoma, and pancreas) among first-degree relatives were reported by the probands. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were used to estimate cancer risks among first-degree relatives of PDAC probands carrying a PGV.

Results

In total, 1670 first-degree relatives (mean [SD] age, 58.1 [17.8] years; 853 male [51.1%]) of 234 PDAC probands (mean [SD] age, 62.5 [10.1] years; 124 male [53.0%]; 219 [94.4%] White; 225 [98.7%] non-Hispanic or non-Latino]) were included in the study. There was a significantly increased risk of ovarian cancer in female first-degree relatives of probands who had variants in BRCA1 (SIR, 9.49; 95% CI, 3.06-22.14) and BRCA2 (SIR, 3.72; 95% CI, 1.36-8.11). Breast cancer risks were higher with BRCA2 variants (SIR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.89-3.54). The risks of uterine or endometrial cancer (SIR, 6.53; 95% CI, 2.81-12.86) and colon cancer (SIR, 5.83; 95% CI, 3.70-8.75) were increased in first-degree relatives of probands who carried Lynch syndrome mismatch repair variants. Risk of PDAC was also increased for variants in ATM (SIR, 4.53; 95% CI, 2.69-7.16), BRCA2 (SIR, 3.45; 95% CI, 1.72-6.17), CDKN2A (SIR, 7.38; 95% CI, 3.18-14.54), and PALB2 (SIR, 5.39; 95% CI, 1.45-13.79). Melanoma risk was elevated for first-degree relatives of probands with CDKN2A variants (SIR, 7.47; 95% CI, 3.97-12.77).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case series, the presence of PGVs in 9 cancer syndrome-associated genes in PDAC probands was found to be associated with increased risk of 6 types of cancers in first-degree relatives. These gene-specific PDAC and extra-PDAC cancer risks may provide justification for clinicians to counsel first-degree relatives about the relevance and importance of genetic cascade testing, with the goal of higher uptake of testing.

Predicting 10-Year Risk of Pancreatic Cancer Using a Combined Genetic and Clinical Model

Background and Aims

Pancreatic cancer has the poorest 5-year survival rate of any major solid tumor, but when diagnosed at an early stage, survival rates improve. Population screening is impractical because pancreatic cancer is rare with a lifetime risk of 1.7%, but accurate risk stratification in the general population could enable health care providers to focus early detection strategies to at-risk individuals. Here, we validate a combined risk prediction model that integrates a polygenic risk score and a clinical risk model.

Methods

Using the UK Biobank, we conducted a prospective cohort study assessing 10-year pancreatic cancer risks based on a polygenic risk score, a clinical risk score, and a combined risk score. We assessed the association, discrimination, calibration, cumulative hazards, and standardized incidence ratios compared to population incidence rates for the risk scores. We also conducted net reclassification analyses.

Results

While all of the risk scores discriminated well between affected and unaffected participants, the combined risk score - with a Harrell's C-index of 0.714 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.698, 0.730) - discriminated better than both the polygenic risk score (P = .001) and the clinical risk score (P = .02). In terms of calibration, there was no problem with dispersion for the combined risk score (β = 0.952, 95% CI = 0.865-1.039, P = .3) and overall there was a small overestimation of risk (α = -0.089, 95% CI = -0.156 to -0.021, P = .009). Participants in the top decile of 10-year risk were at 1.413 (95% CI = 1.242-1.607) times population risk.

Conclusion

The combined risk score was able to identify individuals at substantially increased risk of pancreatic cancer and to whom targeted screening could be useful.

Proteomics biomarker discovery for individualized prevention of familial pancreatic cancer using statistical learning

BACKGROUND

The low five-year survival rate of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and the low diagnostic rate of early-stage PDAC via imaging highlight the need to discover novel biomarkers and improve the current screening procedures for early diagnosis. Familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) describes the cases of PDAC that are present in two or more individuals within a circle of first-degree relatives. Using innovative high-throughput proteomics, we were able to quantify the protein profiles of individuals at risk from FPC families in different potential pre-cancer stages. However, the high-dimensional proteomics data structure challenges the use of traditional statistical analysis tools. Hence, we applied advanced statistical learning methods to enhance the analysis and improve the results' interpretability.

METHODS

We applied model-based gradient boosting and adaptive lasso to deal with the small, unbalanced study design via simultaneous variable selection and model fitting. In addition, we used stability selection to identify a stable subset of selected biomarkers and, as a result, obtain even more interpretable results. In each step, we compared the performance of the different analytical pipelines and validated our approaches via simulation scenarios.

RESULTS

In the simulation study, model-based gradient boosting showed a more accurate prediction performance in the small, unbalanced, and high-dimensional datasets than adaptive lasso and could identify more relevant variables. Furthermore, using model-based gradient boosting, we discovered a subset of promising serum biomarkers that may potentially improve the current screening procedure of FPC.

CONCLUSION

Advanced statistical learning methods helped us overcome the shortcomings of an unbalanced study design in a valuable clinical dataset. The discovered serum biomarkers provide us with a clear direction for further investigations and more precise clinical hypotheses regarding the development of FPC and optimal strategies for its early detection.

Risk of Pancreatic Cancer in the Long-Term Prospective Follow-Up of Familial Pancreatic Cancer Kindreds

BACKGROUND

A family history of pancreatic cancer is associated with increased pancreatic cancer risk. However, risk estimates for individuals in kindreds with an aggregation of pancreatic cancer (>1 relative) are imprecise because of small samples sizes or potentially impacted by biases inherent in retrospective data.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine the age-specific pancreatic cancer risk as a function of family history using prospective data.

METHODS

We compared pancreatic cancer incidence (n = 167) in 21 141 individuals from 4433 families enrolled in the National Familial Pancreatic Cancer Registry with that expected based on Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results data and estimated the cumulative probability of pancreatic cancer using competing risk regression.

RESULTS

Familial pancreatic kindred members (kindreds with pancreatic cancer in 2 first-degree relatives [FDRs] or a pathogenic variant) had a standardized incidence ratio of 4.86 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.01 to 5.90), and sporadic kindred members (kindreds not meeting familial criteria) had a standardized incidence ratio of 2.55 (95% CI = 1.95 to 3.34). Risk in familial pancreatic cancer kindreds increased with an increasing number of FDRs with pancreatic cancer, with a standardized incidence ratio of 3.46 (95% CI = 2.52 to 4.76), 5.44 (95% CI = 4.07 to 7.26), and 10.78 (95% CI = 6.87 to 16.89) for 1, 2, and 3 or more FDRs with pancreatic cancer, respectively. Risk was also higher among individuals with a family history of young-onset (aged younger than 50 years) pancreatic cancer.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic cancer risk is strongly dependent on family history, including both the degree of relationship(s) and age of onset of pancreatic cancer in relatives. These risk estimates will help inform the design of early detection studies and the risk and benefit analysis of screening trials.

Germline BRCA2 variants in advanced pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (PACC) is a rare tumor. Up to 45% of PACCs have alterations in the DNA damage repair pathway and 23% harbor rearrangements in the BRAF or RAF1 genes. We present a PACC case with a germline BRCA2 likely pathogenic variant (LPV) to highlight the impact of genomic testing on treatment decisions and patient outcomes. In our larger case series, we provide clinic-based information on additional 10 PACC patients treated in our center.

CASE SUMMARY

A 70-year-old male was diagnosed with advanced PACC. At presentation, he was cachectic with severe arthralgia despite prednisolone and a skin rash that was later confirmed to be panniculitis. He was treated with modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) with the knowledge of the germline BRCA2 LPV. Following 11 cycles of mFFX, a computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated significant tumor response in the pancreatic primary and hepatic metastases, totaling 70% from baseline as per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Resolution of the skin panniculitis was also noted. We identified two additional PACCs with druggable targets in our case series. Our data contribute to practical evidence for the value of germline and somatic profiling in the management of rare diseases like PACC.

CONCLUSION

This patient and others in our larger case series highlight the importance of genomic testing in PACC with potential utility in personalized treatment.

Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Trends in Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Outcomes

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in the world; it is a silent disease in which symptoms do not present until advanced stages, thereby reducing the 5-year survival rate to 10%. The global burden of pancreatic cancer has doubled over the past 25 years despite advancements in medicine. This review aims to discuss the global trends and disparities in pancreatic cancer, as well as the up-to-date literature on the known risk factors. A better understanding of these risk factors will reduce mortality by providing opportunities to screen these patients as well as counseling on lifestyle modifications.

Current Screening Strategies for Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a dreaded malignancy with a dismal 5-year survival rate despite maximal efforts on optimizing treatment strategies. Radical surgery is the only potential curative procedure. Unfortunately, the majority of patients are diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic disease, which renders them ineligible for curative resection. Early detection of PDAC is thus considered to be the most effective way to improve survival. In this regard, pancreatic screening has been proposed to improve results by detecting asymptomatic stages of PDAC and its precursors. There is now evidence of benefits of systematic surveillance in high-risk individuals, and the current guidelines emphasize the potential of screening to affect overall survival in individuals with genetic susceptibility syndromes or familial occurrence of PDAC. Here we aim to summarize the current knowledge about screening strategies for PDAC, including the latest epidemiological data, risk factors, associated hereditary syndromes, available screening modalities, benefits, limitations, as well as management implications.

Association Between Helicobacter pylori Infection and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review Based on Observational Studies

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection has long been scrutinized as one of the potential risk factors for the development of pancreatic cancer with quite inconsistent and unequivocal data. Little is known about the risk factors involved with this malignancy. In this systematic review, we aimed to examine the relationship between H. pylori infection and pancreatic cancer based on the evidence from the existing observational studies across the world. We searched major electronic databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library. After a careful and thorough screening process, we selected 15 observation studies for this systematic review. Six of 15 studies found a significant association between H. pylori infection and pancreatic cancer. Additionally, four of these studies found a significant relationship between the cytotoxin-associated gene A strain of H. pylori and pancreatic cancer. Based on the evidence from the selected studies, a weak association was observed between H. pylori infection and cancer of the pancreas, especially in European and Asian populations compared to the North American population. The cross-sectional evidence from the case-control studies only suggests the existence of an association but does not provide substantial evidence of the causative relationship. Further large-scale, prospective cohort studies are warranted in the future to understand this contradictory relationship better.

Association Between Family History and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer in Patients With BRCA1 and BRCA2 Pathogenic Variants

OBJECTIVES

Current guidelines limit pancreatic cancer screening to those BRCA1/2 patients who have a family history of pancreatic cancer. We aimed to assess the association between family history and risk of pancreatic neoplasms in BRCA1/2 patients.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records of BRCA1/2 patients followed at our institution between 1995 and 2020. Family history was defined as those with a first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer. We compared the incidence and prevalence of pancreatic neoplasms between patients with and without family history of pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS

We identified 56 BRCA1/2 patients with family history and 238 without family history of pancreatic cancer. No difference between these groups was noted in age, race, or sex. Mean follow-up interval for BRCA1/2 patients was 4.6 years (range, 0-19.7 years). There was no significant difference in prevalence (19.6% vs 12.6; P = 0.3) or incidence (29% vs 14.1%; P = 0.08) of branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm between the 2 groups. No association between family history and pancreatic cancer risk was noted. Only 1 of 10 BRCA1/2 patients with pancreatic cancer had a family history.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results do not support using family history to determine eligibility for pancreatic cancer screening.

Long-term yield of pancreatic cancer surveillance in high-risk individuals

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the long-term yield of pancreatic cancer surveillance in hereditary predisposed high-risk individuals.

DESIGN

From 2006 to 2019, we prospectively enrolled asymptomatic individuals with an estimated 10% or greater lifetime risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) after obligatory evaluation by a clinical geneticist and genetic testing, and subjected them to annual surveillance with both endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and MRI/cholangiopancreatography (MRI/MRCP) at each visit.

RESULTS

366 individuals (201 mutation-negative familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) kindreds and 165 PDAC susceptibility gene mutation carriers; mean age 54 years, SD 9.9) were followed for 63 months on average (SD 43.2). Ten individuals developed PDAC, of which four presented with a symptomatic interval carcinoma and six underwent resection. The cumulative PDAC incidence was 9.3% in the mutation carriers and 0% in the FPC kindreds (p<0.001). Median PDAC survival was 18 months (range 1-32). Surgery was performed in 17 individuals (4.6%), whose pathology revealed 6 PDACs (3 T1N0M0), 7 low-grade precursor lesions, 2 neuroendocrine tumours <2 cm, 1 autoimmune pancreatitis and in 1 individual no abnormality. There was no surgery-related mortality. EUS detected more solid lesions than MRI/MRCP (100% vs 22%, p<0.001), but less cystic lesions (42% vs 83%, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic yield of PDAC was substantial in established high-risk mutation carriers, but non-existent in the mutation-negative proven FPC kindreds. Nevertheless, timely identification of resectable lesions proved challenging despite the concurrent use of two imaging modalities, with EUS outperforming MRI/MRCP. Overall, surveillance by imaging yields suboptimal results with a clear need for more sensitive diagnostic markers, including biomarkers.

Pancreatic cancer risk to siblings of probands in bilineal cancer settings

PURPOSE

Pancreatic cancer (PC) risk is increased in families, but PC risk and risk perception have been understudied when both parents have cancer.

METHODS

An unbiased method defining cancer triads (proband with PC and both parents with cancer) in a prospective registry estimated risk of PC to probands' siblings in triad group 1 (no parent with PC), group 2 (1 parent with PC), and group 3 (both parents with PC). We estimated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) using a Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) reference. We also estimated the risk when triad probands carried germline pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in any of the 6 PC-associated genes (ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDKN2A, MLH1, and TP53). PC risk perception/concern was surveyed in siblings and controls.

RESULTS

Risk of PC was higher (SIR = 3.5; 95% CI = 2.2-5.2) in 933 at-risk siblings from 297 triads. Risk increased by triad group: 2.8 (95% CI = 1.5-4.5); 4.5 (95% CI = 1.6-9.7); and 21.2 (95% CI = 4.3-62.0). SIR in variant-negative triads was 3.0 (95% CI = 1.6-5.0), whereas SIR in variant-positive triads was 10.0 (95% CI = 3.2-23.4). Siblings' perceived risk/concern of developing PC increased by triad group.

CONCLUSION

Sibling risks were 2.8- to 21.2-fold higher than that of the general population. Positive variant status increased the risk in triads. Increasing number of PC cases in a triad was associated with increased concern and perceived PC risk.

Study protocol for a multi-institutional prospective surveillance study among kindreds with familial pancreatic cancer and individuals with hereditary pancreatic cancer syndrome: The Diamond Study

BACKGROUND

Family history of pancreatic cancer (PC) and some hereditary cancer syndromes are risk factors for PC. Previous studies suggest that conducting surveillance for kindreds at high risk for familial PC may be useful for diagnoses at the stage where resections can still be implemented; however, there is insufficient evidence linking surveillance and increased rates of resectable PC.

METHODS

We launched a surveillance study for kindreds with familial PC and individuals with hereditary PC syndrome, titled the "Diamond Study," in June 2020. This Japanese national multi-institutional prospective intervention study has been initiated to conduct evaluations within a prospective clinical trial format.

RESULTS

The primary endpoint is the fraction of patients with resectable PC among patients with PC found through surveillance interventions. Endoscopic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging combined with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography will be performed alternatively every 6 months for up to 15 years, with 400 as the predicted number of registered participants and a predicted registration period of 10 years.

CONCLUSION

We intend to scientifically prove the usefulness of surveillance for kindreds with familial PC and individuals with hereditary PC syndrome to improve PC prognoses.

Effects of hyperinsulinemia on pancreatic cancer development and the immune microenvironment revealed through single-cell transcriptomics

BACKGROUND

Hyperinsulinemia is independently associated with increased risk and mortality of pancreatic cancer. We recently reported that genetically reduced insulin production resulted in ~ 50% suppression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) precancerous lesions in mice. However, only female mice remained normoglycemic, and only the gene dosage of the rodent-specific Ins1 alleles was tested in our previous model. Moreover, we did not delve into the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with modulating hyperinsulinemia.

METHODS

We studied how reduced Ins2 gene dosage affects PanIN lesion development in both male and female Ptf1a^CreER;Kras^LSL-G12D mice lacking the rodent-specific Ins1 gene (Ins1^-/-). We generated control mice having two alleles of the wild-type Ins2 gene (Ptf1a^CreER;Kras^LSL-G12D;Ins1^-/-;Ins2^+/+) and experimental mice having one allele of Ins2 gene (Ptf1a^CreER;Kras^LSL-G12D;Ins1^-/-;Ins2^+/-). We then performed thorough histopathological analyses and single-cell transcriptomics for both genotypes and sexes.

RESULTS

High-fat diet-induced hyperinsulinemia was transiently or modestly reduced in female and male mice, respectively, with only one allele of Ins2. This occurred without dramatically affecting glucose tolerance. Genetic reduction of insulin production resulted in mice with a tendency for less PanIN and acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM) lesions. Using single-cell transcriptomics, we found hyperinsulinemia affected multiple cell types in the pancreas, with the most statistically significant effects on local immune cell types that were highly represented in our sampled cell population. Specifically, hyperinsulinemia modulated pathways associated with protein translation, MAPK-ERK signaling, and PI3K-AKT signaling, which were changed in epithelial cells and subsets of immune cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest a potential role for the immune microenvironment in hyperinsulinemia-driven PanIN development. Together with our previous work, we propose that mild suppression of insulin levels may be useful in preventing pancreatic cancer by acting on multiple cell types.

Diagnostic Strategy of Early Stage Pancreatic Cancer via Clinical Predictor Assessment: Clinical Indicators, Risk Factors and Imaging Findings

Early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in the general population is difficult due to unknown clinical characteristics. This study was conducted to clarify the factors associated with early stage PDAC. Well-known symptoms and factors associated with PDAC were classified into clinical indicators, risk factors, and imaging findings concomitant with early stage PDAC. To analyze these factors for the detection of patients with early stage PDAC compared to patients without PDAC, we constructed new diagnostic strategies. The factors of 35 patients with early stage PDAC (stage 0 and IA) and 801 patients without PDAC were compared retrospectively. Clinical indicators; presence and number of indicators, elevated pancreatic enzyme level, tumor biomarker level, acute pancreatitis history, risk factors; familial pancreatic cancer, diabetes mellitus, smoking history, imaging findings; presence and number of findings, and main pancreatic duct dilation were significant factors for early stage PDAC detection. A new screening strategy to select patients who should be examined by imaging modalities from evaluating clinical indicators and risk factors and approaching a definitive diagnosis by evaluating imaging findings had a relatively high sensitivity, specificity, and areas under the curve of 80.0%, 80.8%, and 0.80, respectively. Diagnosis based on the new category and strategy may be reasonable for early stage PDAC detection.

Influence of Cancer Susceptibility Gene Mutations and ABO Blood Group of Pancreatic Cancer Probands on Concomitant Risk to First-Degree Relatives

BACKGROUND

ABO blood group is associated with pancreatic cancer risk. Whether ABO blood group alone or when combined with inherited mutation status of index pancreatic cancer cases (probands) can enhance pancreatic cancer risk estimation in first-degree relatives (FDR) is unclear. We examined FDRs' risk for pancreatic cancer based on probands' ABO blood group and probands' cancer susceptibility gene mutation status.

METHODS

Data on 23,739 FDRs, identified through 3,268 pancreatic cancer probands, were analyzed. Probands' ABO blood groups were determined serologically or genetically, and 20 cancer susceptibility genes were used to classify probands as "mutation-positive" or "mutation-negative." SIRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated, comparing observed pancreatic cancer cases in the FDRs with the number expected in SEER-21 (reference population).

RESULTS

Overall, FDRs had 2-fold risk of pancreatic cancer (SIR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.79-2.22). Pancreatic cancer risk was higher in FDRs of mutation-positive (SIR = 3.80; 95% CI = 2.81-5.02) than mutation-negative (SIR = 1.79; 95% CI = 1.57-2.04) probands (P < 0.001). The magnitude of risk did not differ by ABO blood group alone (SIRblood-group-O = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.20-2.03, SIRnon-O = 1.83; 95% CI = 1.53-2.17; P = 0.33). Among FDRs of probands with non-O blood group, pancreatic cancer risk was higher in FDRs of mutation-positive (SIR = 3.98; 95% CI = 2.62-5.80) than mutation-negative (SIR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.35-2.03) probands (P < 0.001), but risk magnitudes were statistically similar when probands had blood group O (SIRmutation-positive = 2.65; 95% CI = 1.09-5.47, SIRmutation-negative = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.06-5.47; P = 0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a range of pancreatic cancer risk to FDRs according to probands' germline mutation status and ABO blood group, ranging from 1.48 for FDRs of probands with blood group O and mutation-negative to 3.98 for FDRs of probands with non-O blood group and mutation-positive.

IMPACT

Combined ABO blood group and germline mutation status of probands can inform pancreatic cancer risk estimation in FDRs.

Molecular Features and Clinical Management of Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer Syndromes and Familial Pancreatic Cancer

Hereditary pancreatic cancers are caused by several inherited genes. Familial pancreatic cancer is defined as pancreatic cancer arising in a patient with at least two first-degree relatives with pancreatic cancer in the absence of an identified genetic cause. Hereditary pancreatic cancer syndromes and familial pancreatic cancers account for about 10% of pancreatic cancer cases. Germline mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, PALB2, CDKN2A, STK11, and TP53 and mismatch repair genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM) are among the well-known inherited susceptibility genes. Currently available targeted medications include poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARP) for cases with mutant BRCA and immune checkpoint inhibitors for cases with mismatch repair deficiency. Loss of heterozygosity of hereditary pancreatic cancer susceptibility genes such as BRCA1/2 plays a key role in carcinogenesis and sensitivity to PARP inhibitors. Signature 3 identified by whole genome sequencing is also associated with homologous recombination deficiency and sensitivity to targeted therapies. In this review, we summarize molecular features and treatments of hereditary pancreatic cancer syndromes and surveillance procedures for unaffected high-risk cases. We also review transgenic murine models to gain a better understanding of carcinogenesis in hereditary pancreatic cancer.

Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity, and Risk of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: a Large Case-Control Study from Iran

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a deadly, globally increasing cancer. The causes of PC are still insufficiently known, however smoking, diabetes mellitus (DM), and obesity have been identified as risk factors of PC, mostly in the developed countries. We evaluated these risk factors and their contribution to PC among an Iranian population.

METHODS

Cases and controls were selected from patients who were registered to a tertiary gastrointestinal diseases referral hospital in Tehran, Iran, from Jan 2012 to Jan 2018. Information on risk factors was collected by personal interview using a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

We recruited 470 new patients with histopathological PC diagnosis and 526 sex and age-matched controls. Cigarette-smoking [AOR: 1.65 (1.15-2.38)], opium use [AOR: 1.58 (1.06-2.35)], DM [AOR: 1.99 (1.31-3.02)], and having a history of any cancer in a first-degree family member [AOR: 1.53 (1.14-2.05)] were associated with an increased risk of PC. We did not find an association between obesity [AOR: 0.99 (0.71-1.38)] and PC. Approximately 4.6%, 5.9%, 8.2%, and 10.9% risk of PC were related to cigarette-smoking, opium use, DM, and family history of any cancer, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study supports that DM is associated with PC risk; however, similar to many studies in Asia, obesity is not associated with PC in Iranians. DM has the highest impact on PC development in Iranian women.

Global trends in pancreas cancer among Asia-Pacific population

The incidence of pancreatic cancer is rising. Understanding trends of pancreatic cancer is crucial prior to putting policies and interventions in place. Countries with a high human development index (HDI) have a higher incidence, prevalence and mortality due to pancreatic cancer. This global trend is replicated in the Asia-Pacific countries with high HDI having higher incidence, prevalence and mortality due to pancreatic cancer. The incidence of pancreatic cancer is rising in the Asia-Pacific population as life expectancy increases with a rising HDI. Lack of good cancer registries has resulted in under reporting of pancreatic cancer in developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The mortality still remains high as in the Western world as most pancreatic cancers are diagnosed in an advanced stage of the disease due to non-availability of cost-effective screening tools with few patients receiving definitive care. Smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet and obesity are significant modifiable risk factors contributing to the development of pancreatic cancer. Population based screening for pancreatic cancer is not cost-effective. Identification of hereditary and genetic factors in the Asia-Pacific population can help in targeted screening of high-risk individuals. Policies and interventions aimed at primary prevention have the greatest potential to be cost-effective yet impactful and reduce the disease burden.

Significant detection of new germline pathogenic variants in Australian Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program participants

BACKGROUND

The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program (APCSP) offers endoscopic ultrasound surveillance for individuals at increased risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with all participants requiring assessment by a Familial Cancer Service before or after study enrolment.

METHODS

Individuals aged 40-80 years (or 10 years younger than the earliest PDAC diagnosis) were eligible for APCSP study entry if they had 1) ≥ two blood relatives with PDAC (at least one of first-degree association); 2) a clinical or genetic diagnosis of Hereditary Pancreatitis or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome irrespective of PDAC family history; or 3) a known PDAC predisposition germline pathogenic variant (BRCA2, PALB2, CDKN2A, or Lynch syndrome) with ≥one PDAC-affected first- or second-degree relative. Retrospective medical record review was conducted for APCSP participants enrolled at the participating Australian hospitals from January 2011 to December 2019. We audited the genetic investigations offered by multiple Familial Cancer Services who assessed APCSP participants according to national guidelines, local clinical protocol and/or the availability of external research-funded testing, and the subsequent findings. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS

Of 189 kindreds (285 participants), 50 kindreds (71 participants) had a known germline pathogenic variant at enrolment (BRCA2 n = 35, PALB2 n = 6, CDKN2A n = 3, STK11 n = 3, PRSS1 n = 2, MLH1 n = 1). Forty-eight of 136 (35%) kindreds with no known germline pathogenic variant were offered mutation analysis; 89% was clinic-funded, with increasing self-funded testing since 2016. The relatively low rates of genetic testing performed reflects initial strict criteria for clinic-funded genetic testing. New germline pathogenic variants were detected in five kindreds (10.4%) after study enrolment (BRCA2 n = 3 kindreds, PALB2 n = 1, CDKN2A n = 1). Of note, only eight kindreds were reassessed by a Familial Cancer Service since enrolment, with a further 21 kindreds identified as being suitable for reassessment.

CONCLUSION

Germline pathogenic variants associated with PDAC were seen in 29.1% of our high-risk cohort (55/189 kindreds; 82/285 participants). Importantly, 10.4% of kindreds offered genetic testing were newly identified as having germline pathogenic variants, with majority being BRCA2. As genetic testing standards evolve rapidly in PDAC, 5-yearly reassessment of high-risk individuals by Familial Cancer Services is warranted.

Cohort profile and heritability assessment of familial pancreatic cancer: a nation-wide study

BACKGROUND

Familial Pancreatic Cancer (FPC) is responsible for up to 10% of all cases of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Individuals predisposed for FPC have an estimated lifetime risk of 16-39% of developing PDAC. While heritability of PDAC has been estimated to be 36% in a Nordic twin study, no heritability estimate specific on FPC has been reported.

METHODS

A national cohort of Danish families with predisposition for FPC is currently included in a screening program for PDAC at Odense University Hospital. Family members included in the screening program were interviewed for pedigree data including: cases of PDAC among first-degree relatives (FDRs) and number of affected/unaffected siblings. Heritability for FPC in the predisposed families was assessed by doubling the estimated intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) from a random intercept logistic model fitted to data on FDRs.

RESULTS

Among families with predisposition for FPC, 83 cases of PDAC were identified. The median age at diagnosis of PDAC was 66 years, and median time from diagnosis to death was 7.6 months. A total of 359 individuals were found as unaffected FDRs of the 83 PDAC cases. The retrieved FDRs included a total of 247 individuals in sibship and 317 individuals in parent-offspring relatedness. We estimated an ICC of 0.25, corresponding to a narrow sense additive heritability estimate of 0.51 in the FPC family cohort.

CONCLUSION

We have established a nation-wide cohort of FPC families to facilitate clinical and genetic studies on FPC. The estimated heritability of 51% prominently underlines a strong genetic background of FPC.

Whole genome sequencing identifies rare germline variants enriched in cancer related genes in first degree relatives of familial pancreatic cancer patients

First-degree relatives (FDRs) of familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) patients have increased risk of developing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Investigating and understanding the genetic basis for PDAC susceptibility in FPC predisposed families may contribute toward future risk-assessment and management of high-risk individuals. Using a Danish cohort of 27 FPC families, we performed whole-genome sequencing of 61 FDRs of FPC patients focusing on rare genetic variants that may contribute to familial aggregation of PDAC. Statistical analysis was performed using the gnomAD database as external controls. Through analysis of heterozygous premature truncating variants (PTV), we identified cancer-related genes and cancer-driver genes harboring multiple germline mutations. Association analysis detected 20 significant genes with false discovery rate, q < 0.05 including: PALD1, LRP1B, COL4A2, CYLC2, ZFYVE9, BRD3, AHDC1, etc. Functional annotation showed that the significant genes were enriched by gene clusters encoding for extracellular matrix and associated proteins. PTV genes were over-represented by functions related to transport of small molecules, innate immune system, ion channel transport, and stimuli-sensing channels. In conclusion, FDRs of FPC patients carry rare germline variants related to cancer pathogenesis that may contribute to increased susceptibility to PDAC. The identified variants may potentially be useful for risk prediction of high-risk individuals in predisposed families.

Advances in the epidemiology of pancreatic cancer: Trends, risk factors, screening, and prognosis

Pancreatic cancer is a malignancy with poor prognosis and high mortality. The recent increase in pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality has resulted in an increased number of studies on its epidemiology. This comprehensive and systematic literature review summarizes the advances in the epidemiology of pancreatic cancer, including its epidemiological trends, risk factors, risk prediction models, screening modalities, and prognosis. The risk factors for pancreatic cancers can be categorized as those related to individual characteristics, lifestyle and environment, and disease status. Several prediction models for pancreatic cancer have been developed in populations with new-onset diabetes or a family history of pancreatic cancer; however, these models require further validation. Despite recent progress in pancreatic cancer screening, the quantity and quality of related studies are also unsatisfactory, especially with respect to the identification of high-risk populations and development of effective screening modality. Apart from the populations with familial genetic risk and those at a high risk of sporadic pancreatic cancer, risk factors such as new-onset diabetes may be a new direction for timely intervention. We hope this work will provide new ideas for further prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Transcript annotation tool (TransAT): an R package for retrieving annotations for transcript-specific genetic variants

BACKGROUND

An individual's genetics play a role in how RNA transcripts are generated from DNA and consequently in their translation into protein. Transcriptional and translational profiling of patients furnishes the information that a specific marker is present; however, it fails to provide evidence whether the marker correlates with response to a therapeutic agent. A comparative analysis of the frequency of genetic variants, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in diseased and general populations can identify pathogenic variants in individual patients. This is in part because SNPs have considerable effects on protein function and gene expression when they occur in coding regions and regulatory sequences, respectively. Therefore, a tool that can help users to obtain the allele frequency for a corresponding transcript is the need of the day. Several annotation tools such as SNPnexus and VariED are publicly available; however, none of them can use transcript IDs as input and provide the corresponding genomic positions of variants.

RESULTS

In this study, we developed an R package, called transcript annotation tool (TransAT), that provides (i) SNP ID and genomic position for a user-provided transcript ID from patients, and (ii) allele frequencies for the SNPs from publicly available global populations. All data elements are extracted, collected, and displayed in an easily downloadable format in two simple command lines. TransAT is available on Windows/Linux/MacOS and is operative for R version 4.0.4 or later. It is available at https://github.com/ShihChingYu/TransAT and can be downloaded and installed using devtools::install_github("ShihChingYu/TransAT", force=T) on the R execution page. Thereafter, all functions can be executed by loading the package into R with library(TransAT).

CONCLUSIONS

TransAT is a novel tool that seamlessly provides genetic annotations for queried transcripts. Such easily obtainable information would be greatly advantageous for physicians, assisting them to make individualized decisions about specific drug treatments. Moreover, allele frequencies from user-chosen global ethnic populations will highlight the importance of ethnicity and its effect on patient pathogenicity.

Burden of Pancreatic Cancer: From Epidemiology to Practice

Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide with 432,242 related deaths in 2018. Unlike other cancers, the incidence of pancreatic cancer continues to increase, with little improvement in survival rates. We review the epidemiologic features of pancreatic cancer, covering surveillance and early detection in high-risk persons. We summarize data on worldwide incidence and mortality and analyze the 1975-2016 data from 9 registries of the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results study, on the overall burden of pancreatic cancer as well as age-, sex-, and race-specific incidence, survival rates and trends. It is important to increase our knowledge of the worldwide and regional epidemiologic features of and risk factors for pancreatic cancer, to identify new approaches for prevention, surveillance, and treatment.

Hyperinsulinemia in Obesity, Inflammation, and Cancer

The relative insufficiency of insulin secretion and/or insulin action causes diabetes. However, obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus can be associated with an absolute increase in circulating insulin, a state known as hyperinsulinemia. Studies are beginning to elucidate the cause-effect relationships between hyperinsulinemia and numerous consequences of metabolic dysfunctions. Here, we review recent evidence demonstrating that hyperinsulinemia may play a role in inflammation, aging and development of cancers. In this review, we will focus on the consequences and mechanisms of excess insulin production and action, placing recent findings that have challenged dogma in the context of the existing body of literature. Where relevant, we elaborate on the role of specific signal transduction components in the actions of insulin and consequences of chronic hyperinsulinemia. By discussing the involvement of hyperinsulinemia in various metabolic and other chronic diseases, we may identify more effective therapeutics or lifestyle interventions for preventing or treating obesity, diabetes and cancer. We also seek to identify pertinent questions that are ripe for future investigation.

Contemporary Management of Pancreatic Cancer from an Internist Perspective

Primary care physicians are in a favorable position to curb the growing burden of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This review aims to provide an overview of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from a primary care perspective, with a specific focus on risk factors, selection of high-risk individuals for screening, patient presentation at the primary-care clinic, and the role of the internist in supportive care. Overall, the internist is an essential member of the multidisciplinary care team with respect to optimizing patients' quality of life across various stages of the pancreatic cancer.

European Cancer Organisation Essential Requirements for Quality Cancer Care (ERQCC): Pancreatic Cancer

European Cancer Organisation Essential Requirements for Quality Cancer Care (ERQCC) are written by experts representing all disciplines involved in cancer care in Europe. They give patients, health professionals, managers and policymakers a guide to essential care throughout the patient journey. Pancreatic cancer is an increasing cause of cancer mortality and has wide variation in treatment and care in Europe. It is a major healthcare burden and has complex diagnosis and treatment challenges. Care must be carried out only in pancreatic cancer units or centres that have a core multidisciplinary team (MDT) and an extended team of health professionals detailed here. Such units are far from universal in European countries. To meet European aspirations for comprehensive cancer control, healthcare organisations must consider the requirements in this paper, paying particular attention to multidisciplinarity and patient-centred pathways from diagnosis, to treatment, to survivorship.

SOX9 modulates cancer biomarker and cilia genes in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive form of cancer with high mortality. The cellular origins of PDAC are largely unknown; however, ductal cells, especially centroacinar cells (CACs), have several characteristics in common with PDAC, such as expression of SOX9 and components of the Notch-signaling pathway. Mutations in KRAS and alterations to Notch signaling are common in PDAC, and both these pathways regulate the transcription factor SOX9. To identify genes regulated by SOX9, we performed siRNA knockdown of SOX9 followed by RNA-seq in PANC-1s, a human PDAC cell line. We report 93 differentially expressed (DE) genes, with convergence on alterations to Notch-signaling pathways and ciliogenesis. These results point to SOX9 and Notch activity being in a positive feedback loop and SOX9 regulating cilia production in PDAC. We additionally performed ChIP-seq in PANC-1s to identify direct targets of SOX9 binding and integrated these results with our DE gene list. Nine of the top 10 downregulated genes have evidence of direct SOX9 binding at their promoter regions. One of these targets was the cancer stem cell marker EpCAM. Using whole-mount in situ hybridization to detect epcam transcript in zebrafish larvae, we demonstrated that epcam is a CAC marker and that Sox9 regulation of epcam expression is conserved in zebrafish. Additionally, we generated an epcam null mutant and observed pronounced defects in ciliogenesis during development. Our results provide a link between SOX9, EpCAM and ciliary repression that can be exploited in improving our understanding of the cellular origins and mechanisms of PDAC.

Long-term positive psychological outcomes in an Australian pancreatic cancer screening program

Screening for pancreatic cancer (PC) in high-risk groups aimed to detect early cancers is currently done only in the research setting, and data on psychological outcomes of screening in these populations is scarce. To determine the psychological impact of a national Australian pancreatic screening program, a prospective study was conducted using validated psychological measures: impact of events scale (IES), psychological consequences questionnaire (PCQ) and the cancer worry scale. Measures were administered at baseline, 1-month and at 1-year post-enrolment and correlations with abnormal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) results were calculated. Over a 6-year period, 102 participants were recruited to the screening program. Thirty-nine patients (38.2%) had an abnormal endoscopic ultrasound, and two patients (2.0%) were diagnosed with PC and two with other malignancies. Those with a personal history of cancer or a positive BRCA2 mutation demonstrated significantly increased worry about developing other types of cancer at baseline (p < 0.01). Irrespective of EUS result, there was a significant decrease of total IES score at 1 year (Z = - 2.0, p = 0.041). In patients with abnormal EUS results, there was a decrease in the total IES score at 1 year (Z = - 2.5, p = 0.011). In participants deemed to be most distressed at baseline based on their negative PCQ score, there was a significant decrease of the total PCQ (Z = - 3.2, p = 0.001), emotional (Z = - 3.0, p = 0.001), social (Z = 3.0, p = 0.001) and physical (Z = - 2.8, p = 0.002) subscale at 1-year post-intervention. This study provides evidence of the long-term psychological benefits of PC screening in high-risk patients. There was no negative impact of screening in the short-term and the positive benefits appeared at 1-year post-intervention irrespective of screening result.

Risk factors of Pancreatic Cancer in Vietnam: A Matched Case-Control Hospital-Based Study

Background:

Data about the risk factors and pancreatic cancer in developing countries remain limited. We investigated for the first time the role of a number of risk factors (family cancer history, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, inflammation disease, HBV infection) associated with pancreatic cancer among Vietnamese patients.

Methods:

We included all patients hospitalized at 4 Northern Vietnamese hospitals (Vietnam National Cancer Hospital, Bach Mai, Viet Duc, Thai Nguyen) and diagnosed with pancreatic cancer during the period from 2017 to 2019. Risk factors of eligible patients were collected and assessed the associations using a matched control study and logistic regression model analysis.

Results:

We identified 196 patients with diagnosis of pancreatic cancer of which 114 males and 82 females. The average age of the patient at the time of diagnosis was 58.28 years (standard deviation of 12.94, ranging from 25 to 87). Most of patients were diagnosed at advanced stage (85%). Smoking, diabetes, inflammation disease significantly increased the cancer risks (OR and 95% CI were 2.42 (1.38-4.37), 3.09 (1.54-6.68), 2.21 (1.42-3.45), respectively). HBV infection demonstrated a significant link with pancreatic cancer in univariate model (OR = 2.94 (1.08-9.36)), but not in multivariate model. However, cancer family history and alcohol drinkers did not show any significantly increased risk related to pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions:

Our finding showed smoking, diabetes, inflammation disease significantly increased the risk of pancreatic cancer in Vietnam.

An Emerging Paradigm for Germline Testing in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Immediate Implications for Clinical Practice: A Review

Importance

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a malignant neoplasm with a rising incidence and is a leading public health challenge. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has been well characterized genomically, with findings of therapeutic actionability that have substantive implications for clinical practice based on recent high-level evidence.

Observations

Pathogenic germline alterations (PGAs) are relatively common in individuals with PDAC, as evidenced in multiple recent data sets, with a frequency of approximately 10%. The most common PGAs are in BRCA1, BRCA2, and ATM and more rarely in PALB2, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, CDKN2A, and TP53, among others, with an aggregate frequency of 3.8% to 9.7%. These PGAs are of key interest owing to therapeutic actionability and the downstream identification of at-risk family members and possible hereditary cancer syndromes. Approximately 3% to 7% of individuals with PDAC harbor a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, which are among the most frequently mutated genes in PDAC. Recent updates to the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend risk assessment for all individuals with PDAC irrespective of personal or family history or ethnicity. Treatment implications include the use of checkpoint inhibitor therapy for mismatch repair-deficient PDAC and the validation of poly-ADP (adenosine diphosphate)-ribose polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) therapy as a maintenance strategy in platinum-sensitive PDAC.

Conclusions and Relevance

With increasing evidence and slow improvement of outcomes, PDAC has entered the era of precision medicine. Germline mutations have been identified in key genes with an aggregate frequency of 3.8% to 9.7%, several of which are therapeutically actionable with platinum, PARPi, and checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Potential therapeutic targets need to be actively sought and identified.

Hereditary and Sporadic Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Current Update on Genetics and Imaging

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a genetically heterogeneous, biologically aggressive malignancy with a uniformly poor prognosis. While most pancreatic cancers arise sporadically, a small subset of PDACs develop in patients with hereditary and familial predisposition. Detailed studies of the rare hereditary syndromes have led to identification of specific genetic abnormalities that contribute to malignancy. For example, germline mutations involving BRCA1, BRCA2, PRSS1, and mismatch repair genes predispose patients to PDAC. While patients with Lynch syndrome develop a rare "medullary" variant of adenocarcinoma, intraductal papillary mucinous tumors are observed in patients with McCune-Albright syndrome. It is now well established that PDACs originate via a multistep progression from microscopic and macroscopic precursors due to cumulative genetic abnormalities. Improved knowledge of tumor genetics and oncologic pathways has contributed to a better understanding of tumor biology with attendant implications on diagnosis, management, and prognosis. In this article, the genetic landscape of PDAC and its precursors will be described, the hereditary syndromes that predispose to PDAC will be reviewed, and the current role of imaging in screening and staging assessment, as well as the potential role of molecular tumor-targeted imaging for evaluation of patients with PDAC and its precursors, will be discussed. Keywords: Abdomen/GI, Genetic Defects, Oncology, Pancreas Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2020.

Current epidemiology of pancreatic cancer: Challenges and opportunities

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is an increasingly common disease worldwide. Having a better understanding of worldwide and regional epidemiologic features and risk factors of PC is essential to identify new approaches for prevention, early diagnosis, surveillance, and treatment. In this article, we review the epidemiologic features and risk factors for PC and discuss opportunities and challenges of PC future treatment.

The Diverse Involvement of Cigarette Smoking in Pancreatic Cancer Development and Prognosis

Despite extensive research in the pathogenesis, early detection, and therapeutic approaches of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), it remains a devastating and incurable disease. As the global incidence and prevalence of PDAC continue to rise, there is a pressing need to place strong emphasis on its prevention. Although it is widely recognized that cigarette smoking, a potentially modifiable risk factor, has been linked to PDAC development, its contribution to prognosis is still uncertain. Moreover, the mechanistic pathways of PDAC progression secondary to smoking are various and lack a summative narration. Herein, we update and summarize the direct and indirect roles cigarette smoking plays on PDAC development, review literature to conclude the impact cigarette smoking has on prognosis, and postulate a comprehensive mechanism for cigarette smoking-induced PDAC.

Familial pancreatic cancer risk: a population-based study in Utah

INTRODUCTION

Pancreas adenocarcinoma (PC) has an undefined hereditary component. We quantified the familial risk of PC among relatives of patients diagnosed with PC and stratified it based on anatomic location of PC and age and sex of the proband.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, population-based, case-control study of PC diagnosed in Utah between 1980 and 2011. The Utah population database and cancer registry were used to identify index patients with PC. The risk of PC in first-degree relatives (FDRs), second-degree relatives (SDRs), and first cousins (FCs) of probands was compared with randomly selected sex- and age-matched population controls.

RESULTS

A total of 4,095 patients and 40,933 controls were identified. The relative risk (RR) of PC was 1.76 (95% CI 1.35-2.29) in FDRs, 1.42 (95% CI 1.18-1.7) in SDRs and 1.08 (95% CI 0.95-1.23) in FCs of probands compared to relatives of PC-free controls. The RR were elevated in FDRs (1.96, 95% CI 1.45-2.65), SDRs (1.54, 95% CI 1.19-1.98) and FCs (1.18, 95% CI 1.0-1.64) of female probands. Among probands diagnosed as < 65 years, RR was 2.12 (95% CI 1.37-3.28) in FDRs, 1.94 (95% CI 1.44-2.62) in SDRs, and 1.28 (95% CI 1.0-1.64) in FCs. Overall, the RR for PC was elevated in FDRs regardless of the anatomic location of PC.

DISCUSSION

There is an increased risk of PC in FDR and more distant relatives of patients with PC. Relatives of female patients with PC and patients diagnosed at age < 65 years are at a significantly increased risk of PC.

Impact of BRCA1/2 gene mutations on survival of patients with pancreatic cancer: A case-series analysis

BRCA gene mutations are found in up to 10% of pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases. We present a description of 4 cases along with a review of the current literature regarding pathogenesis, target treatment, response and survival rates in these types of malignancies. We describe four cases of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, in three of which the BRCA2 mutation was identified, in one - BRCA1 gene alteration. Two patients underwent surgery following the neoadjuvant treatment with Folfirinox and radiotherapy; in the first case, a distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy was performed and in the second one - the Whipple's procedure. In both cases, a complete pathological response was reported. Other 2 patients were treated with Folfirinox after BRCA mutation identification and acceptable life expectancy was obtained. The association of pathologic complete response (PCR) with lower rates of local recurrence and better survival in patients with various types of adenocarcinomas is well known. Identification of such patients carrying BRCA mutations could provide an application of better personalized treatment. In some patients with pancreatic cancer, especially when there is clinical or demographic reason to suspect a genetic predisposition, a confirmation of the presence of BRCA mutations could provide an opportunity to use target treatment with beneficial outcomes regarding survival.