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Emerging MEK inhibitors

James A McCubrey1, Linda S Steelman, Steven L Abrams

  • 1Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, 600 Moye Boulevard, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. mccubreyj@ecu.edu

Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs
|February 16, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Targeting MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) effectively suppresses cell growth and apoptosis. MEK inhibitors show therapeutic potential for cancer, proliferative diseases, and aging.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Cellular Biology

Background:

  • The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway is frequently activated by genetic mutations in signaling molecules like Ras and B-Raf.
  • This pathway significantly influences cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation.
  • MEK inhibitors offer a strategy to control this pathway's aberrant activity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the scientific literature on targeting MEK for controlling abnormal proliferation.
  • To explore novel therapeutic strategies for cancer and other proliferative diseases.
  • To build upon previous reviews focusing on Raf inhibitors.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review from 1980 to the present.
  • Analysis of studies investigating MEK inhibitors.
  • Synthesis of findings related to pathway modulation.

Main Results:

  • Understanding the genetic basis of patient response to MEK inhibitors.
  • Exploring combination therapies involving MEK inhibitors.
  • Investigating roles in preventing cellular aging and cancer stem cell development.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting MEK effectively inhibits key pathways in cell growth and apoptosis.
  • MEK inhibitors demonstrate significant therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.
  • Applications extend to managing proliferative diseases and age-related conditions.

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