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Assessment of Resistance to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors by an Interrogation of Signal Transduction Pathways by Antibody Arrays
Published on: September 19, 2018
Epidermal growth factor receptor family tyrosine kinases as signal integrators and therapeutic targets
Christopher J Barnes1, Rakesh Kumar
1Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Activating mutations, gene amplification and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor (erbB or HER) family kinases have been implicated as integral contributors to a variety of cancers. However, there is increasing evidence that the HER family receptors propagate not only signals initiated by their own ligands but also those initiated by multiple other signaling pathways. Attenuation of HER family signaling is a developing strategy for the management of human malignancies and is the subject of a number of ongoing clinical trials. The purpose of this review is to provide a timely update of recent reports in the rapidly evolving area of HER family biology and the emerging integral role of these receptors in malignant transformation and as targets of cancer therapy.
Insights
Activating mutations in human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family kinases drive cancer. Targeting HER signaling pathways is a promising strategy for managing human malignancies and cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Signal Transduction
Background:
- Activating mutations, gene amplification, and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family kinases are key drivers in various cancers.
- HER family receptors transmit signals from their ligands and other signaling pathways.
- HER family signaling plays an integral role in malignant transformation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on recent findings in HER family biology.
- To highlight the role of HER receptors in cancer development.
- To discuss HER receptors as targets for cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent reports on HER family biology.
- Analysis of the role of HER receptors in cancer.
- Examination of HER receptors as therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- HER family signaling is implicated in diverse cancers.
- HER receptors integrate signals from multiple pathways.
- Attenuation of HER signaling is an emerging cancer management strategy.
Conclusions:
- HER family receptors are crucial in cancer pathogenesis.
- Targeting HER family signaling offers a viable therapeutic approach.
- Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating strategies to attenuate HER signaling.
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