Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026
Molecular and Immunologic Techniques in a Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Published on: May 2, 2022
Advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors successfully treated with imatinib mesylate: a report of two cases
Syed Hasan1, Mohamed Hassan, Luc Oke
1Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC 20059, USA. syedphasan@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Activation of kit-receptor tyrosine kinase occurs in all cases of gastrointestinal stromal tumors, regardless of the mutation status of kit. Imatinib mesylate (STI 571,Gleevec) is a selective inhibitor of certain protein tyrosine kinases. It has been shown in preclinical models and clinical studies to have activity against such tumors. The aim of the present study was to report the efficacy of imatinib mesylate in the treatment of advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Two adults with histologically confirmed, unresectable, and metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors that expressed CD117 (a marker of kit-receptor tyrosine kinase) were identified at our institution during 2000-2002. As the diseases were advanced and not amenable to surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, imatinib mesylate was used, because this targeted inhibitor has been shown to be active against advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors and has a mild toxicity profile. Imatinib mesylate induced a sustained response in both patients with advanced unresectable or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Inhibition of the KIT signal-transduction pathway is a promising treatment for advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors, which resist conventional chemotherapy.
Insights
Imatinib mesylate effectively treats advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) by targeting the KIT pathway. This targeted therapy shows sustained responses in patients resistant to conventional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) universally exhibit activation of the KIT receptor tyrosine kinase.
- Imatinib mesylate is a targeted inhibitor of specific protein tyrosine kinases, demonstrating preclinical and clinical activity against GIST.
Observation:
- Two adult patients with advanced, unresectable, and metastatic GIST expressing CD117 were treated with imatinib mesylate.
- Conventional therapies (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation) were not suitable for these patients due to disease advancement.
Findings:
- Imatinib mesylate demonstrated sustained clinical responses in both patients with advanced GIST.
- The treatment was well-tolerated, exhibiting a mild toxicity profile.
Implications:
- Targeted inhibition of the KIT signal-transduction pathway represents a promising therapeutic strategy for advanced GIST.
- Imatinib mesylate offers an effective treatment option for GIST patients refractory to standard chemotherapy.
