Overview

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most lethal malignancies, largely due to its late diagnosis, dense stromal microenvironment, and limited therapeutic options. Recent advances in structure-based drug design, allele-specific KRAS inhibitors, and targeted protein degradation strategies have opened new avenues for drug discovery in PDAC. This event will bring together leading researchers, clinicians, and students to discuss cutting-edge approaches for developing novel small-molecule inhibitors, including direct KRAS^G12D inhibitors, SOS1/SHP2 allosteric modulators, and emerging degrader technologies. The forum aims to provide an integrated perspective spanning target identification, lead discovery, preclinical validation, and translational strategies, while also addressing challenges such as tumor heterogeneity, stromal barriers, and adaptive resistance.

Objectives of Event

  1. Highlight the recent breakthroughs in small-molecule drug discovery targeting KRAS mutations and signaling pathways relevant to PDAC.
  2. Discuss emerging modalities such as KRAS^G12D-selective inhibitors, targeted degraders, and allosteric modulators (SOS1, SHP2).
  3. Explain preclinical and translational models (e.g., organoids, GEMMs, PDX models) for evaluating efficacy, resistance, and tumor microenvironment interactions.
  4. Identify research gaps and collaborative opportunities for accelerating the development of next-generation small-molecule inhibitors.
  5. Encourage early-career researchers to engage with novel technologies in structure-based design, molecular modeling, and biomarker development.

Convener Details

  • Dr. Bhuvnesh Kumar, Dean Research, Sharda University

Co-ordinators:

 

  • Dr Sanjay Kumar, Associate Prof., Dept. Life Sciences, SSBT,  Sharda University
  • Dr. Lalit P Chandravanshi, Assistant Dean Research, Sharda University

 

Speaker Details:

  • Dr. Vivek Kumar Kashyap, Assistant Professor of Medicine Division of Cancer Immunology and Microbiology Medicine and Oncology Integrated Service Unit South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, University of Texas, USA