This hereditary form, often caused by mutations in genes encoding protease serine 1 (PRSS1), chymotrypsin C (CTRC), serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1), and/or carboxypeptidase A1 (CPA1), serves as a genetic background for studying the mechanisms underlying pancreatitis and its progression to PDAC. The gene discussed is SPINK1; the disease is pancreatitis.