Experimental Carcinogenesis of Exocrine Pancreas: Animal Models, Neoplasms, and Current Understanding of Pathogenesis

The induction of neoplasms of the exocrine pancreas by chemical carcinogens has been achieved in several rodent species (Table 12). These have been the focus of research in a number of laboratories and have collectively contributed significantly to our understanding of pancreatic carcinogenesis. Although three rodent models have been identified, namely the rat, guinea pig, and Syrian golden hamster, the majority of research has been done with the rat and hamster. However, in an effort to be complete, all three models will be considered in this manuscript.