Pancreatic Cancer Markers

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and challenging malignancies. Most patients develop exocrine tumors and, less commonly, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs). Exocrine tumors can be further categorized as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), acinar cell carcinoma, and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs). Techniques including Western blots, ELISA, flow cytometry, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemistry can distinguish among the different types of pancreatic cancer and provide vital information about cell proliferation and disease progression, which is critical for the early detection, prognosis/monitoring, and treatment of the disease.

NeoBiotechnologies proudly offers a comprehensive selection of antibodies for ovarian cancer research (see the table below), with a particular emphasis on IHC-validated antibodies targeting pancreatic cancer protein markers. Our antibodies are rigorously validated for specificity, ensuring precise and reliable results. 

Notable pancreatic cancer markers:

• CA 19-9 (Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9): a widely used biomarker for pancreatic cancer. Elevated levels can be indicative of the disease, but it is not highly specific and can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions.
• CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen): a general tumor marker and its levels can be elevated in pancreatic cancer. It is used for monitoring treatment response and disease recurrence.
• KRAS (Kirsten Rat Sarcoma viral oncogene homolog): Mutations in the KRAS gene are nearly universal in pancreatic cancer and are a key driver of the disease. KRAS status can influence treatment options.
• HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2): HER2 overexpression or amplification is found in a subset of pancreatic cancers and may be targetable with anti-HER2 therapies.
• BRCA1 and BRCA2: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Testing for these mutations helps identify high-risk individuals and can guide preventive measures.
• p53: Mutations and abnormal expression of the p53 tumor suppressor gene are common in pancreatic cancer and can influence prognosis and treatment options.
• SMAD4 (SMAD Family Member 4): Loss of SMAD4 expression or function is associated with a worse prognosis in pancreatic cancer.
• MUC1 (Mucin 1): a glycoprotein often overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and a potential target for immunotherapies.
• CEA-Related Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (CEACAM1): associated with tumor invasion and metastasis in pancreatic cancer.
• Mesothelin: a cell surface protein often overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and is a target for specific immunotherapies.
• FGFR (Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor): Aberrant activation of FGFR signaling pathways is found in some pancreatic cancer cases and may be targetable with specific inhibitors.
• SMO (Smoothened): Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway through SMO is implicated in some pancreatic cancers and can be targeted with specific inhibitors.