Molecular Profile of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a rare yet highly aggressive malignancy characterized by a complex and heterogeneous molecular landscape. It is one of the most common forms of biliary tract cancer (BTC), with a higher prevalence among women and in certain geographic regions. GBC shows high incidence in Chile, Northern India, and parts of Asia but is rare in Western countries, reflecting geographic and ethnic influences. Despite poor overall 5-year survival (5–20%), radical cholecystectomy in early stages can achieve up to 80% survival. Advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have uncovered distinct molecular pathways, including TP53 and KRAS alterations, offering insights for targeted therapies. This chapter sheds light on the diverse genetic and molecular alterations underlying GBC, providing significant insights into its pathogenesis. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the disease but also highlight potential targets for novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes.