title: Pathology, genetics and precursors of human and experimental pancreatic neoplasms: An update.
abstract: Over the past decade, there have been substantial improvements in our knowledge of pancreatic neoplasms and their precursor lesions. Extensive genetic analyses, recently using high-throughput molecular techniques and next-generation sequencing methodologies, and the development of sophisticated genetically engineered mouse models closely recapitulating human disease, have improved our understanding of the genetic basis of pancreatic neoplasms. These advances are paving the way for refined, molecular-based classifications of pancreatic neoplasms with the potential to better predict prognosis and, possibly, response to therapy. Another major development resides in the identification of subsets of pancreatic exocrine and endocrine neoplasms which occur in the context of hereditary syndromes and whose genetic basis and tumor development have been at least partially defined. However, despite all molecular progress, correct and careful morphological characterization of tissue specimens both in the context of experimental and routine diagnostic pathology represents the basis for any further genetic investigation or clinical decision. This review focuses on the current and new concepts of classification and on the current models of tumor development, both in the field of exocrine and endocrine neoplasms, and underscores the importance of applying standardized terminology to allow adequate data interpretation and promote scientific exchange in the field of pancreas research.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Pathology, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany. Electronic address: Irene.Esposito@med.uni-duesseldorf.de.
authors.forename: Irene
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Esposito
authors.affiliation: Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
authors.forename: Angela
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Segler
authors.affiliation: Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
authors.forename: Katja
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Steiger
authors.affiliation: Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
authors.forename: Günter
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Klöppel
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D009374:Neoplasms, Experimental / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology*; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology*
keywords: Ductal adenocarcinoma; KRAS; Mouse model; Neuroendocrine neoplasm; Pancreatic cancer; Precursor lesion