セミナー情報

Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common (90%) and aggressive type of pancreatic cancer. Genomic analyses of PDAC specimens have identified the recurrent genetic mutations that drive PDAC initiation and progression. However, the underlying mechanisms that further drive PDAC metastasis remain elusive. Despite many attempts, no recurrent genetic mutation driving PDAC metastasis has been found, suggesting that PDAC metastasis is driven by epigenetic fluctuations rather than genetic factors. Therefore, establishing epigenetic mechanisms of PDAC metastasis would facilitate the development of successful therapeutic interventions. I will provide a comprehensive overview on the role of epigenetic mechanisms in PDAC as a critical contributor on PDAC progression and metastasis.