STAT+: The race to catch KRAS, pancreatic cancer’s ‘greasy ball,’ and create the most promising drug in decades

For nearly 50 years, scientists have been chasing a major culprit behind some of the most aggressive tumors: a gene known as KRAS. When this gene mutates, it acts like a stuck gas pedal for cancer growth. Despite knowing how dangerous these mutations are, researchers historically struggled to create drugs that could successfully attach to and disable the resulting proteins, leaving doctors with few options for their patients.

A few years ago, scientists finally managed to develop first-generation treatments that could block KRAS. However, these initial medicines came with significant limitations. They were only an option for about 1% of patients with pancreatic cancer, and even then, the clinical results were largely disappointing. Patients saw only minor improvements before their cancers quickly developed resistance to the medication.

Now, a new wave of research is generating fresh optimism. An investigational drug called daraxonrasib is designed to target KRAS and related proteins more effectively. Early clinical trials are showing real promise, providing a beacon of hope for patients who have exhausted traditional therapies like chemotherapy and are looking for new ways to extend their lives.