Human pluripotent stem cell-derived acinar/ductal organoids generate human pancreas upon orthotopic transplantation and allow disease modelling

Objective The generation of acinar and ductal cells from human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) is a poorly studied process, although various diseases arise from this compartment. Design We designed a straightforward approach to direct human PSCs towards pancreatic organoids resembling acinar and ductal progeny. Results Extensive phenotyping of the organoids not only shows the appropriate marker profile but also ultrastructural, global gene expression and functional hallmarks of the human pancreas in the dish. Upon orthotopic transplantation into immunodeficient mice, these organoids form normal pancreatic ducts and acinar tissue resembling fetal human pancreas without evidence of tumour formation or transformation. Finally, we implemented this unique phenotyping tool as a model to study the pancreatic facets of cystic fibrosis (CF). For the first time, we provide evidence that in vitro, but also in our xenograft transplantation assay, pancreatic commitment occurs generally unhindered in CF. Importantly, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) activation in mutated pancreatic organoids not only mirrors the CF phenotype in functional assays but also at a global expression level. We also conducted a scalable proof-of-concept screen in CF pancreatic organoids using a set of CFTR correctors and activators, and established an mRNA-mediated gene therapy approach in CF organoids. Conclusions Taken together, our platform provides novel opportunities to model pancreatic disease and development, screen for disease-rescuing agents and to test therapeutic procedures.This study was funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, K.L. 2544/1-1 and 1-2), the Forschungskern SyStaR to AK, BIU (Böhringer Ingelheim Ulm to AK), the Fritz-Thyssen Foundation (Az. 10.15.2.040), the German Cancer Aid (111879) and the Else-Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung (2011_A200). AK is indebted to the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung for the financial support of this research project by the Eliteprogramme for Postdocs. AK is also an Else-Kröner-Fresenius Memorial Fellow. LP is supported by a research fellowship of the Else-Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung. MH was supported by the International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine and the Bausteinprogramme (L.SBN. 110), Ulm University. MM is supported by a grant of Ulm University (Baustein for Senior Clinician Scientists). IGC is funded by the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF Aachen) and Start Program, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, German

Targeting DNA Damage Repair Mechanisms in Pancreas Cancer

BRCA1/2; Inhibición de PARP; Adenocarcinoma ductal pancreáticoBRCA1/2; Inhibició DE PARP; Adenocarcinoma ductal pancreàticBRCA1/2; PARP inhibition; Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomaImpaired DNA damage repair (DDR) is increasingly recognised as a hallmark in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is estimated that around 14% of human PDACs harbour mutations in genes involved in DDR, including, amongst others, BRCA1/2, PALB2, ATM, MSH2, MSH6 and MLH1. Recently, DDR intervention by PARP inhibitor therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in germline BRCA1/2-mutated PDAC. Extending this outcome to the significant proportion of human PDACs with somatic or germline mutations in DDR genes beyond BRCA1/2 might be beneficial, but there is a lack of data, and consequently, no clear recommendations are provided in the field. Therefore, an expert panel was invited by the European Society of Digestive Oncology (ESDO) to assess the current knowledge and significance of DDR as a target in PDAC treatment. The aim of this virtual, international expert meeting was to elaborate a set of consensus recommendations on testing, diagnosis and treatment of PDAC patients with alterations in DDR pathways. Ahead of the meeting, experts completed a 27-question survey evaluating the key issues. The final recommendations herein should aid in facilitating clinical practice decisions on the management of DDR-deficient PDAC.This congress paper received no external funding. Additional research funding is declared: L.P. (DFG PE 3337/1-1), A.K. (DFG KL 2544/1-1, 1-2, 5-1, 6-1, 7-1, Baden-Württemberg-Foundation ExPoChip, German Cancer Aid 111879, INDIMED-Verbund PancChip, HEIST RTG DFG GRK 2254/1 and Excellence grant Else-Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung), E.M.O. (Cancer Center Support Grant/Core Grant P30 CA008748)

Modeling plasticity and dysplasia of pancreatic ductal organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells

Personalized in vitro models for dysplasia and carcinogenesis in the pancreas have been constrained by insufficient differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into the exocrine pancreatic lineage. Here, we differentiate hPSCs into pancreatic duct-like organoids (PDLOs) with morphological, transcriptional, proteomic, and functional characteristics of human pancreatic ducts, further maturing upon transplantation into mice. PDLOs are generated from hPSCs inducibly expressing oncogenic GNAS, KRAS, or KRAS with genetic covariance of lost CDKN2A and from induced hPSCs derived from a McCune-Albright patient. Each oncogene causes a specific growth, structural, and molecular phenotype in vitro. While transplanted PDLOs with oncogenic KRAS alone form heterogenous dysplastic lesions or cancer, KRAS with CDKN2A loss develop dedifferentiated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. In contrast, transplanted PDLOs with mutant GNAS lead to intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia-like structures. Conclusively, PDLOs enable in vitro and in vivo studies of pancreatic plasticity, dysplasia, and cancer formation from a genetically defined background

European guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency : UEG, EPC, EDS, ESPEN, ESPGHAN, ESDO, and ESPCG evidence-based recommendations

Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) is defined as a reduction in pancreatic exocrine secretion below the level that allows the normal digestion of nutrients. Pancreatic disease and surgery are the main causes of PEI. However, other conditions and upper gastrointestinal surgery can also affect the digestive function of the pancreas. PEI can cause symptoms of nutritional malabsorption and deficiencies, which affect the quality of life and increase morbidity and mortality. These guidelines were developed following the United European Gastroenterology framework for the development of high-quality clinical guidelines. After a systematic literature review, the evidence was evaluated according to the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology, as appropriate. Statements and comments were developed by the working groups and voted on using the Delphi method. The diagnosis of PEI should be based on a global assessment of symptoms, nutritional status, and a pancreatic secretion test. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), together with dietary advice and support, are the cornerstones of PEI therapy. PERT is indicated in patients with PEI that is secondary to pancreatic disease, pancreatic surgery, or other metabolic or gastroenterological conditions. Specific recommendations concerning the management of PEI under various clinical conditions are provided based on evidence and expert opinions. This evidence-based guideline summarizes the prevalence, clinical impact, and general diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for PEI, as well as the specifics of PEI in different clinical conditions. Finally, the unmet needs for future research are discussed

Ivosidenib for IDH1‐Mutant Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Insights From a Multicenter Real‐World Study

Background & aims: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare cancer with limited therapeutic options and a poor prognosis. While first-line combination therapies have improved outcomes, second-line treatment remains challenging. Ivosidenib, an IDH1 inhibitor, has shown promise in treating IDH1 mutant CCA, but real-world data is limited. This study aims to evaluate ivosidenib's efficacy and safety in a large cohort of patients and compare it with second-line chemotherapy. Methods: This observational, retrospective, multicenter study included patients with advanced IDH1 mutant CCA treated with ivosidenib at 11 European institutions from May 2021 to September 2024. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); the main secondary objectives were overall survival (OS), disease control rate (DCR), overall response rate (ORR) and safety. As a pre-planned exploratory objective, mPFS and OS of second-line ivosidenib and FOLFOX/CAPOX were compared by means of inverse probability of treatment weights (IPTW)-adjusted analysis. Results: The study included 46 patients treated with Ivosidenib; 43.5% received ivosidenib as second line and 56.5% as ≥ third line. Median PFS and OS were 3.7 (95% CI, 2.2-36.5) and 11.5 months (95% CI, 9.5-36.5). DCR was 50.0%. Grade ≥ 3 adverse events occurred in 8.7% of patients. IPTW-adjusted mPFS was 6.9 months with ivosidenib and 2.1 months with FOLFOX/CAPOX (HR: 0.36, 95% CI, 0.20-0.64, p = 0.0005), while the mOS was 15.9 and 9.0 months with ivosidenib and FOLFOX/CAPOX, respectively (HR: 0.47, 95% CI, 0.23-0.96, p = 0.0405). Conclusion: This study suggests that ivosidenib is a valid option for patients affected by metastatic IDH1 mutant CCA after at least one line of standard treatment

European guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency: UEG, EPC, EDS, ESPEN, ESPGHAN, ESDO, and ESPCG evidence‐based recommendations

Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) is defined as a reduction in pancreatic exocrine secretion below the level that allows the normal digestion of nutrients. Pancreatic disease and surgery are the main causes of PEI. However, other conditions and upper gastrointestinal surgery can also affect the digestive function of the pancreas. PEI can cause symptoms of nutritional malabsorption and deficiencies, which affect the quality of life and increase morbidity and mortality. These guidelines were developed following the United European Gastroenterology framework for the development of high-quality clinical guidelines. After a systematic literature review, the evidence was evaluated according to the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology, as appropriate. Statements and comments were developed by the working groups and voted on using the Delphi method. The diagnosis of PEI should be based on a global assessment of symptoms, nutritional status, and a pancreatic secretion test. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), together with dietary advice and support, are the cornerstones of PEI therapy. PERT is indicated in patients with PEI that is secondary to pancreatic disease, pancreatic surgery, or other metabolic or gastroenterological conditions. Specific recommendations concerning the management of PEI under various clinical conditions are provided based on evidence and expert opinions. This evidence-based guideline summarizes the prevalence, clinical impact, and general diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for PEI, as well as the specifics of PEI in different clinical conditions. Finally, the unmet needs for future research are discussed

Negative impact of corticosteroid use on outcome in patients with advanced BTCs treated with cisplatin, gemcitabine, and durvalumab: a large real‐life worldwide population

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the possible prognostic impact of concomitant medications in patients with cancer treated with immunotherapy combinations. This real‐world analysis aims to evaluate the impact of concomitant medications on survival outcomes in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTCs) treated with cisplatin, gemcitabine and durvalumab (CGD) therapy. The study cohort included patients with a diagnosis of advanced BTCs who were taking concomitant medications for their comorbidities before the start of CGD. The primary objectives were overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). The initial population consisted of 666 patients, who were retrospectively collected from 41 sites in 12 countries. Data on concomitant medications were available for 493 patients. After a median follow‐up of 8.8 months (95% CI: 7.8–9.8), patients who did not take steroids (prednisone >10 mg/day or equivalent) or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, before the start of CGD, had longer OS and PFS in univariate analysis. The multivariate analysis confirmed longer OS for patients who did not take steroids. Patients who did not take steroids had an OS of 14.8 months (95% CI: 13.1–29.1) versus 5.0 months (95% CI: 2.14–11.32) of patients who took prednisone >10 mg/day or equivalent. No differences were reported in terms of overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) ( p = 1.0 and p = .16, respectively), and safety profile between the two groups. Our analysis suggests that patients who did not receive steroids before the start of GCD had longer survival and highlighted the relevance of balancing concomitant medications and chemoimmunotherapy

Immunhistochemische Charakterisierung Atm depletierter Pankreata im Mausmodell des duktalen pankreatischen Adenokarzinoms

Das humane duktale Pankreaskarzinom (PDAC) gehört zu den Krebserkrankungen mit der höchsten Mortalität. Klinische Charakteristika sind ein aggressives Wachstum mit einer frühzeitigen Metastasierung und einer hohen Therapieresistenz. Die zu Grunde liegenden Mechanismen sind jedoch weiterhin nur unzu- reichend bekannt und erfordern eine weitere tiefgreifende Erforschung der molekularen Pathomechanismen, um daraus möglicherweise zukünftige Therapieoptionen ableiten zu können. Ataxia telangiectasia mutiert (ATM) ist eine Serin-/Threoninkinase mit wichtiger Funktion in der Reparatur von DNA-Doppelstrangbrüchen. Zunehmendes Wissen über die biologische Relevanz von ATM deutet nebst anderen, auch auf eine mögliche Rolle im humanen Pankreaskarzinom hin. Daraus abgeleitet liegt der vorliegenden Arbeit als grundlegende Fragestellung die Aufarbeitung möglicher Einflüsse von Atm auf die Tumorentwicklung zu Grunde. Zu diesem Zweck wurde ein neues Mausmodell generiert, in das basierend auf dem p48-Cre+//LSL-KrasG12D+ Mausmodell (KC) eine pankreasspezifische Atm Deletion (AKC) eingebracht wurde. Die Charakterisierung des neuen AKC Mausmodells erfolgte anhand immun- histochemischer Methoden, im Vergleich zum derzeitigen Standard PDAC Mausmodell der KC Maus. Darüber hinaus erfolgte ein Übertrag der Befunde ins humane PDAC mittels Tissue Microarray, bestehend aus Gewebeproben von resezierten PDAC Patienten sowie gesundem Gewebe. Zusammenfassend konnte dem Verlust von Atm eine relevante Rolle in der Tumorgenese des murinen PDAC zugewiesen werden. Der Verlust von Atm korreliert dabei mit einem Epithelial-Mesenchymalen-Transitions Phänotyp der Tumoren, einer erhöhten Metastasierungsrate, sowie dem signifikant verkürzten Überleben der Mäuse. Auffällig zeigt sich darüber hinaus eine kompensatorische Aktivie- rung von TP53, unabhängig von P21, sowie eine erhöhte Proliferationsrate bei Verlust von Atm. Diese Befunde konnten auch partiell auf das humane PDAC übertragen werden. Hier konnte eine Korrelation mit fortgeschritteneren Tumorstadien und dem Verlust der ATM Expression gezeigt werden