BRCA mutated pancreatic cancer: A change is coming

World J Gastroenterol. 2021 May 7;27(17):1943-1958. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i17.1943.

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death with few available therapies for advanced disease. Recently, patients with germline BRCA mutations have received increased attention due to advances in the management of BRCA mutated ovarian and breast tumors. Germline BRCA mutations significantly increase risk of developing pancreatic cancer and can be found in up to 8% of patients with sporadic pancreatic cancer. In patients with germline BRCA mutations, platinum-based chemotherapies and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors are effective treatment options which may offer survival benefits. This review will focus on the molecular biology, epidemiology, and management of BRCA-mutated pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, we will discuss future directions for this area of research and promising active areas of research.

Keywords: BRCA; Deoxyribonucleic acid repair; Pancreatic cancer; Platinum chemotherapy; Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors; Systemic therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • BRCA1 Protein / genetics
  • BRCA2 Protein / genetics
  • Female
  • Germ-Line Mutation
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors / therapeutic use

Substances

  • BRCA1 Protein
  • BRCA2 Protein
  • Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors