Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) have identified the protein SRSF1 as a critical factor in the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly lethal form of pancreatic cancer. Elevated levels of SRSF1, which regulates RNA splicing, are associated with inflammation and accelerated tumor growth. Conversely, normalization of SRSF1 levels can halt disease progression, potentially offering new avenues for diagnosis and treatment. PDAC has a notoriously poor prognosis, with over 90% of patients succumbing within five years of diagnosis, often due to late detection.
Professor Adrian Krainer and his team studied the interplay between RNA splicing and pancreatic cancer, focusing on how disruptions in SRSF1 regulation lead to pancreatitis and promote PDAC growth. Their research indicates that tumors with elevated SRSF1 levels correspond with worse patient outcomes. While SRSF1 plays a necessary role in healthy tissue, targeting the abnormal splicing mechanisms it induces could be a promising strategy for therapy. The collaboration aims to enhance understanding of both pancreatic and breast cancers. The findings underscore the significance of basic research in advancing cancer treatment strategies.
