Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
07:21
Molecular and Immunologic Techniques in a Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Published on: May 2, 2022
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor: a clinical overview
1Center for Sarcoma and Bone Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America
|March 3, 2009
Summary
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are now understood to be driven by KIT mutations. Targeted therapy with imatinib mesylate has transformed GIST treatment and cancer drug development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) was historically poorly understood.
- Recent advances have elucidated its pathogenesis and diagnostic markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the transformation in understanding and treating GIST.
- To emphasize GIST as a model for targeted cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Discovery of activating KIT mutations in GIST pathogenesis.
- Recognition of KIT protein expression (CD 117) as a diagnostic marker.
- US Food and Drug Administration approval of imatinib mesylate for GIST treatment.
Main Results:
- KIT mutations are central to GIST pathogenesis.
- CD 117 is a reliable diagnostic marker for GIST.
- Imatinib mesylate approval revolutionized metastatic or unresectable GIST treatment.
Conclusions:
- GIST understanding and treatment have dramatically improved.
- GIST serves as a paradigm for rationally designed cancer therapeutics.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
02:17The Tumor Microenvironment
Every normal cell or tissue is embedded in a complex local environment called stroma, consisting of different cell types, a basal membrane, and blood vessels. As normal cells mutate and develop into cancer cells, their local environment also changes to allow cancer progression. The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a complex cellular matrix of stromal cells and the developing tumor. The cross-talk between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells is critical to disrupt normal tissue...
01:29Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...