Exploring the molecular associations of ADAR and KRAS and their therapeutic implications in lung and pancreatic cancer

Description

Of all cancer types, lung and pancreatic cancers present substantial challenges due to late diagnosis, restricted treatment options, and poor prognosis, resulting in significant annual mortality rates. The aberration of the KRAS (Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog) oncogene, which triggers perpetual activation of signaling pathways associated with cell growth and survival, is a common denominator in both cancer types. Additionally, alterations in RNA editing orchestrated by ADAR (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA) have been observed in various cancers, including lung and pancreatic cancer. Considering the possible crosstalk between both proteins found in the literature, coupled with different analyses of cancer patient database, this research project will explore the molecular association between ADAR and KRAS and its therapeutic implications in those cancers. By understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying this association using cutting-edge experimental models like tumor organoids from patients and genetically engineered mice (GEM), the project also proposes to shed light on the role of ADAR-mediated editing in treatment resistance observed in patients with KRAS mutations.

Overall, this research project will contribute to a better understanding of lung and pancreatic cancer at the molecular level, uncover potential therapeutic targets, and pave the way for the development of more effective and personalized treatment strategies for patients. Indeed, the findings from this research could provide valuable insights into how modulating ADAR activity might reverse treatment resistance and open new therapeutic avenues for patients with KRAS-mutant lung and pancreatic cancer.

Project investigators

• María Rosario Prados Carvajal – Principal Investigator

Funding entities

Fundación Científica de la Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer