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Published on: July 26, 2017
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) pathway signaling
1Department of Pharmacology and University of Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado 80010, USA. Andrew.Thorburn@uchsc.edu
Abstract:
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)/Apo1L is a death ligand, a cytokine that activates apoptosis through cell surface death receptors. TRAIL is thought to be important in host tumor surveillance and metastasis suppression, and various therapeutic agonists that activate TRAIL receptors to induce tumor cell apoptosis are in clinical development. This review discusses recent findings about TRAIL pathway signaling and relates the signaling mechanisms to issues that need to be considered as we try to manipulate TRAIL signaling to treat cancer.
Insights
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a cytokine crucial for tumor surveillance. This review explores TRAIL pathway signaling for cancer treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a cytokine that initiates apoptosis via cell surface death receptors.
- TRAIL plays a role in host tumor surveillance and suppressing metastasis.
- Therapeutic agents targeting TRAIL receptors for cancer treatment are under clinical investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding TRAIL pathway signaling.
- To connect TRAIL signaling mechanisms with challenges in cancer therapy.
- To inform strategies for manipulating TRAIL signaling in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent findings on TRAIL pathway signaling.
- Analysis of signaling mechanisms related to TRAIL receptor activation.
- Discussion of therapeutic implications for cancer treatment.
Main Results:
- Recent findings elucidate complex TRAIL pathway signaling networks.
- Understanding these mechanisms is key to overcoming resistance and enhancing efficacy.
- TRAIL receptor agonists show promise but require careful consideration of signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- TRAIL pathway signaling is a critical target for cancer therapy.
- Further research into TRAIL signaling mechanisms will optimize therapeutic strategies.
- Manipulating TRAIL signaling holds significant potential for cancer treatment.
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