Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA) is a rare, malignant neoplasm that occurs due to the uncontrolled growth of the epithelial tissues within the jejunum, which is part of the small intestine. Protheragen provides comprehensive services for both diagnostics and therapeutics development in Jejunal Adenocarcinoma. Our offerings encompass the full spectrum from target identification and validation to preclinical proof-of-concept studies.
Overview of Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA)
Jejunal adenocarcinoma (JA) is a rare malignancy with aggressive characteristics that develops in the jejunum section of the small intestine. It constitutes only a tiny percentage of all GI tumors, with an incidence rate of approximately 2.6 cases per 100,000 people. This type of cancer often has vague presenting symptoms, which include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss, which may delay diagnosis. More frequently, JA is diagnosed in patients aged 55 - 65 years, and more commonly at advanced stages (III or IV), which markedly decreases patient prognosis and survival.
Fig.1 Hematoxylin-eosin stain at 20x magnification: tumor fragment with disordered, complex glands in a desmoplastic stroma. (Patel J.,
et al., 2022)
Pathogenesis of Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA)
The pathogenesis of jejunal adenocarcinoma is multifactorial, involving both genetic and environmental factors. Genetic predispositions such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome are associated with an increased risk of developing JA. These syndromes are characterized by mutations in specific genes that lead to the development of multiple polyps and an increased likelihood of malignancy. Additionally, chronic inflammatory conditions like Crohn's disease and celiac disease are linked to JA, suggesting that chronic inflammation may play a role in its development. Environmental factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity also contribute to the risk of developing this malignancy.
Diagnostics Development for Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA)
Molecular and Genetic Testing
Molecular and genetic testing have become increasingly vital in the diagnosis and management of jejunal adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry and genetic analyses can detect specific mutations and biomarkers associated with the disease. For example, mutations in the NRAS gene and the presence of microsatellite instability (MSI) can be identified through these tests. These results not only assist in diagnosis but also inform therapeutic decisions, as certain mutations may predict responsiveness to specific therapies.
Imaging Techniques
Imaging is essential for diagnosing jejunal adenocarcinoma. CT scans are frequently employed to detect obstructions and masses in the small intestine. However, their sensitivity for identifying small bowel tumors is relatively low, at approximately 50%. Advanced imaging methods like magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) and capsule endoscopy provide higher resolution and superior visualization of the small bowel mucosa, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Therapeutics Development for Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA)
- Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery to improve outcomes, particularly in advanced stages of the disease. Regimens such as FOLFOX (folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin) have shown efficacy in treating small bowel adenocarcinomas. The addition of targeted therapies like bevacizumab, a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, has also been explored in clinical settings. For example, a case described a patient with stage IV jejunal adenocarcinoma who underwent 12 cycles of FOLFOX and bevacizumab, followed by successful surgical resection and complete remission.
- Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy
Targeted therapies and immunotherapy represent emerging therapeutic options for JA. These therapies aim to exploit specific molecular vulnerabilities of cancer cells. For instance, patients with MSI-high or mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) tumors may benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. Additionally, targeted therapies against specific genetic mutations, such as those in the NRAS gene, are being investigated in clinical trials. These approaches hold promise for improving outcomes and reducing the toxicity associated with traditional chemotherapy.
Table 1. Therapeutics of Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA).
| Therapeutics |
Drug Name |
Target |
Description |
Stage |
| Surgical Therapy |
Surgical Resection |
Primary tumor, obstructed bowel |
The primary curative therapy for localized jejunal adenocarcinoma. It involves the surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding affected tissues. Also used to alleviate complications like bowel obstruction. |
Approved |
| Chemotherapy |
FOLFOX (Folinic acid, Fluorouracil, Oxaliplatin) |
DNA synthesis (Fluorouracil), DNA damage (Oxaliplatin) |
A combination chemotherapy regimen is commonly used for various gastrointestinal cancers. Folinic acid enhances the effect of fluorouracil. Fluorouracil is an antimetabolite that interferes with DNA synthesis, while oxaliplatin is a platinum-based agent that causes DNA damage, leading to cancer cell death. |
Approved |
| Targeted Therapy |
Bevacizumab |
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) |
A monoclonal antibody that inhibits angiogenesis by binding to VEGF, preventing the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and spread. It is used in combination with chemotherapy. |
Approved |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
Our Services
Protheragen offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic development services for Jejunal Adenocarcinoma (JA). Our services include a broad range of diagnostic technologies, including molecular testing. We provide state-of-the-art preclinical research services to support the development of new therapies, from early discovery through preclinical studies. Our custom services are designed to meet the specific needs of our clients, ensuring that each project is tailored to achieve optimal results.
Diagnostics Development
- Karyotype Analysis Service
- Omics Analysis Service
- Biomarker Development Service
- Artificial Intelligence Service
- Customized Diagnostics Development
Therapeutic Development
- Anticancer Peptide
- Gene Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Monoclonal Antibody
- Phytotherapy
- Small Molecule Drug
- Therapeutic Cancer Vaccine
Disease Models
- Primary Human Enteroid-Derived Cells
- Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) Models
- Cell-Derived Xenograft (CDX) Models
- KRASG12D Mutation Models
Protheragen's diagnostics and therapeutics development services offer a distinct advantage through our expertise and experience in the field. Our team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of success in developing effective solutions for rare and complex malignancies like jejunal adenocarcinoma. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Patel, Jay, et al. "Jejunal adenocarcinoma: a rare cause of small bowel obstruction." Cureus 14.1 (2022).
- Pereira, Raquel, et al. "Adenocarcinoma of the jejunum: management of a rare small bowel neoplasm." Journal of Surgical Case Reports 2021.4 (2021): rjab124.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
