TAM receptor tyrosine kinases: biologic functions, signaling, and potential therapeutic targeting in human cancer

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Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
10:49

Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia

Published on: September 19, 2013

Rachel M A Linger1, Amy K Keating, H Shelton Earp

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, Aurora, CO, USA.

Advances in Cancer Research
|July 16, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) plays key roles in cell functions and diseases. Overexpression of these TAM receptors in cancers suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting their inhibition.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The TAM family comprises Tyro-3, Axl, and Mer receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs).
  • These RTKs feature conserved kinase domains and extracellular adhesion molecule-like domains.
  • TAM receptors regulate critical cellular processes like proliferation, survival, adhesion, migration, and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of TAM receptor structure, regulation, functions, and signaling.
  • To discuss the role of TAM receptors in oncogenic mechanisms and cancer progression.
  • To explore potential strategies for targeted inhibition of TAM family members in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on TAM receptors.
  • Analysis of genetic and experimental data related to TAM receptor function.
  • Review of evidence linking TAM receptor overexpression to human cancers.

Main Results:

  • TAM receptors are involved in diverse biological processes, including cell signaling and immune regulation.
  • Alterations in TAM receptor function are implicated in diseases such as coagulopathy, autoimmune disorders, retinitis pigmentosa, and cancer.
  • TAM receptor family members are frequently overexpressed in various human cancers, correlating with prognostic significance.

Conclusions:

  • TAM receptors play a significant role in both normal physiological processes and disease pathogenesis.
  • The overexpression of TAM receptors in cancer highlights their potential as therapeutic targets.
  • Further research is crucial to fully elucidate the clinical implications of TAM receptor activity in cancer and to develop effective inhibition strategies.

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