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Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Establishing Cell Lines Overexpressing DR3 to Assess the Apoptotic Response to Anti-mitotic Therapeutics
Published on: January 11, 2019
Proapoptotic DR4 and DR5 signaling in cancer cells: toward clinical translation
Annie Yang1, Nicholas S Wilson, Avi Ashkenazi
1Genentech Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
Abstract:
Proapoptotic receptor agonists (PARAs) targeting death receptors (DRs) 4 and 5 hold promise for cancer therapy based on their selective ability to kill malignant versus healthy cells. Emerging clinical results have confirmed that DR4/5 PARAs are relatively well-tolerated and suitable for further investigation. Given that some cancer cell lines and models are not sensitive to PARAs, it is important to develop strategies to identify what specific types of tumor cells may be most responsive to PARA-based therapy and how to overcome apoptosis resistance mechanisms in tumors. Here we review the molecular and biological determinants of responsiveness to PARAs in cancer cells, and discuss the potential for predictive biomarkers and drug combination strategies to maximize the anti-tumor activity of these agents.
Insights
Proapoptotic receptor agonists (PARAs) targeting death receptors 4 and 5 show promise for cancer treatment. Strategies are needed to identify responsive tumors and overcome resistance to maximize anti-tumor effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Proapoptotic receptor agonists (PARAs) targeting death receptors (DRs) 4 and 5 offer selective cancer cell killing.
- Clinical data suggest DR4/5 PARAs are well-tolerated and warrant further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular and biological factors influencing cancer cell responsiveness to PARAs.
- To discuss predictive biomarkers and combination strategies for enhancing PARA efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PARAs, death receptors 4 and 5, and apoptosis resistance.
- Analysis of molecular determinants of tumor cell sensitivity and resistance.
Main Results:
- Some cancer cell lines and models exhibit resistance to PARAs.
- Identifying responsive tumor types and overcoming resistance are crucial for therapeutic success.
Conclusions:
- Understanding determinants of PARA responsiveness is key.
- Predictive biomarkers and combination therapies can maximize anti-tumor activity of PARAs.
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