PROMISING RESULTS FOR THE CURE OF PANCREATIC CANCER: A REVIEW BASED ON THE IDEAS OF MARIANO BARBASID

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the scientific contributions of Mariano Barbacid and the advances in the molecular understanding of pancreatic cancer, especially those related to the KRAS oncogene, highlighting their implications for diagnosis, understanding tumor progression, and the development of new therapeutic approaches. This is a narrative literature review, with searches conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scielo, and Google Scholar, using descriptors related to pancreatic cancer, KRAS, and Mariano Barbacid. Initially focused on the author’s contributions, the analysis incorporated other studies to broaden the discussion. Relevant articles were included, preferably from the last 10 years, while those lacking scientific rigor or unrelated to the topic were excluded. In total, 9 studies were analyzed in a descriptive and interpretative manner. The findings show that pancreatic cancer remains highly lethal due to its biological complexity, highlighting the central role of the KRAS oncogene. Barbacid’s research has significantly contributed to understanding molecular pathways and identifying therapeutic targets, such as RAF1. Despite advances, there are limitations related to tumor resistance and the translation of experimental results into clinical practice, reinforcing the need for combined therapies and approaches targeting the tumor microenvironment. Although important progress has been made, pancreatic cancer still represents a clinical challenge. There is a need for integrated therapeutic strategies, development of biomarkers, and further clinical studies to validate experimental findings and improve patient prognosis.