Genetically Engineered Mouse Models of K-Ras-Driven Lung and Pancreatic Tumors: Validation of Therapeutic Targets

signaling has been intensely studied for over 40 years. Yet, as of today, no drugs have been approved to treat mutant cancers. Since the turn of the century, scientists have used genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models to reproduce mutant cancers in a laboratory setting to elucidate those molecular events responsible for the onset and progression of these tumors and to identify suitable therapies. In this review, we outline a brief description of available GEM models for two tumor types known to be driven by mutations: lung adenocarcinoma and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. In addition, we summarize a series of studies that have used these GEM tumor models to validate, either by genetic or pharmacological approaches, the therapeutic potential of a variety of targets, with the ultimate goal of translating these results to the clinical setting.