Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

A Method for Screening and Validation of Resistant Mutations Against Kinase Inhibitors
Published on: December 7, 2014
Off-Target Effects of BCR-ABL and JAK2 Inhibitors
Myke R Green1, Michael D Newton, Karen M Fancher
1*Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Arizona Cancer Center †Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Arizona Medical Center, Tucson, AZ ‡Department of Clinical Pharmacy, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy §Department of Pharmacy, West Virginia University Hospitals, Morgantown, WV ∥Department of Pharmacy Practice-Oncology Acute Care, Duquesne University Mylan School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA.
Abstract:
The advent of targeted oncolytic agents has created a revolution in the treatment of malignancies. Perhaps best exemplified in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, including inhibitors of BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase and JAK2, have dramatically changed outcomes in persons with MPN. However, clinically relevant dosing of these adenosine triphosphate-mimetic agents in humans leads to inhibition of numerous tyrosine kinases beyond those touted by drug manufacturers and studied in landmark clinical trials. These so-called off-target effects have been linked to both clinical efficacy and toxicity. Rational drug development and serendipitous discovery of drug molecules allows the clinician to select targeted oncolytic agents to treat a specific clinical diagnosis and/or avoid exacerbation of concomitant disease states due to effects upon signaling pathways. Understanding the off-target binding and effects upon signaling pathway of the agents approved for the treatment of MPN will empower the clinician to adroitly select pharmacotherapy, predict toxicities, and utilize these agents in clinical practice for indications beyond MPN.
Insights
Targeted oncolytic agents, like tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have transformed cancer treatment, especially for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Understanding their off-target effects is key to optimizing therapy and predicting patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Targeted oncolytic agents, particularly tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have revolutionized cancer therapy.
- TKIs targeting BCR-ABL and JAK2 have significantly improved outcomes for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN).
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the clinical implications of off-target effects of TKIs used in MPN treatment.
- To provide clinicians with insights for selecting optimal pharmacotherapy and predicting toxicities.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on TKI mechanisms of action and off-target effects.
- Analysis of clinical trial data and pharmacodynamic studies related to MPN therapies.
Main Results:
- Clinically relevant doses of TKIs inhibit multiple tyrosine kinases beyond their primary targets.
- These off-target effects are associated with both the efficacy and toxicity of these agents.
- Understanding these effects can guide treatment decisions and identify potential new indications.
Conclusions:
- Knowledge of off-target binding and signaling pathway effects is crucial for effective TKI utilization in MPN.
- This understanding empowers clinicians to personalize pharmacotherapy, anticipate adverse events, and expand TKI applications.
- Further research into off-target profiles can enhance rational drug development and clinical practice.
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
The JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway
Inhibition of Cdk Activity
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Abnormal Proliferation

