Genetic susceptibility in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
BACKGROUND
The strongest risk factors for pancreatic adenocarcinoma are tobacco smoking and increasing age. However, only a few smokers or elderly individuals develop the disease and genetic factors are also likely to be important.


METHODS
The literature on genetic factors modifying susceptibility to cancer was reviewed, with particular regard to the interindividual variation that exists in the development of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.


RESULTS
Tobacco-derived carcinogen-metabolizing enzyme gene variants have been the main area of study in stratifying the risk of sporadic pancreatic cancer. Inconsistent results have emerged from the few molecular epidemiological studies performed.


CONCLUSIONS
There is great scope for further investigation of critical pathways and unidentified genetic influences may be revealed. This may eventually allow the identification of individuals at high risk who might be targeted for screening.
Lochan
R
R
Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Unit, Department of Surgery, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. rajivlj@doctors.org.uk
Daly
A K
AK
Reeves
H L
HL
Charnley
R M
RM
D002273:Carcinogens / Q000032:analysis; D021441:Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / Q000235:genetics*; D004260:DNA Repair; D004777:Environment; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D010375:Pedigree; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects
D002273:Carcinogens