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Published on: January 22, 2019
Development of phosphoinositide-3 kinase pathway inhibitors for advanced cancer
James M Cleary1, Geoffrey I Shapiro
1Department of Medical Oncology, Early Drug Development Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
Abstract:
The phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway plays a critical role in cancer cell growth and survival. PI3K is activated in human cancers by elevated receptor tyrosine kinase activity, RAS mutation, as well as by mutation, amplification, and deletion of genes encoding components of the pathway. Additionally, PI3K pathway activation plays an important role in acquired resistance to both chemotherapy and targeted agents. The essential role of PI3K in human cancer has led to the development of PI3K pathway inhibitors that have shown promise in preclinical models and have entered phase 1 clinical trials. This article reviews preclinical and clinical data on members of this novel drug class, as well as data justifying the combination of PI3K inhibitors with other anticancer agents.
Insights
The phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway is crucial for cancer growth and resistance to treatment. Inhibitors targeting this pathway show promise in clinical trials and combination therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway is integral to cancer cell proliferation and survival.
- PI3K pathway activation is implicated in various human cancers through genetic alterations and receptor tyrosine kinase activity.
- This pathway also contributes to acquired resistance against chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review preclinical and clinical data on PI3K pathway inhibitors.
- To evaluate the potential of PI3K inhibitors as a novel class of anticancer agents.
- To explore the rationale for combining PI3K inhibitors with other anticancer treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies on PI3K pathway inhibitors.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for PI3K inhibitors.
- Examination of genetic alterations leading to PI3K pathway activation in cancer.
Main Results:
- PI3K pathway inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in preclinical cancer models.
- Phase 1 clinical trials indicate the promise of this novel drug class.
- PI3K pathway activation is a common mechanism in cancer and resistance development.
Conclusions:
- PI3K pathway inhibitors represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
- Further clinical investigation and combination strategies are warranted.
- Targeting the PI3K pathway offers a promising approach for overcoming cancer resistance.
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