Inhibition of the DDR1-stimulated expression of NF-κB or mitochondrial biogenesis blocks tumorigenesis in wild-type mice, but not in mice that express MMP-resistant Col I. The diverse effects of the tumour stroma on the growth and metastasis of PDAC and on the survival of patients are mediated through the Col I–DDR1–NF-κB–NRF2 mitochondrial biogenesis pathway, and targeting components of this pathway could provide therapeutic opportunities. The gene discussed is DDR1; the disease is neoplasm.