We detected the antiproliferative effect with MTT test and investigated the changes in biological properties, cytomorphology and ultrastructure through cytopathology and electronic microscopy. Cell growth of JF-305 was inhibited by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). The maximal inhibitory rate was 34.7%. The number of proliferative cells reduced (P < 0.01). Cell metabolism slowed down, secretory functions recovered, and malignant degree decreased. ATRA can inhibit the proliferation and induce the differentiation of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma JF-305 cells.