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Updated: Apr 30, 2026

Kinase Inhibitor Screening In Self-assembled Human Protein Microarrays
Published on: October 23, 2019
Chemical strategies for development of ATR inhibitors
Sabin Llona-Minguez1, Andreas Höglund1, Sylvain A Jacques1
1Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, S-171 21 Stockholm, Sweden.
Abstract:
ATR protein kinase is one of the key players in maintaining genome integrity and coordinating of the DNA damage response and repair signalling pathways. Inhibition of ATR prevents signalling from stalled replication forks and enhances the formation of DNA damage, particularly under conditions of replication stress present in cancers. For this reason ATR/CHK1 checkpoint inhibitors can potentiate the effect of DNA cross-linking agents, as evidenced by ATR inhibitors recently entering human clinical trials. This review aims to compile the existing literature on small molecule inhibitors of ATR, both from academia and the pharmaceutical industry, and will provide the reader with a comprehensive summary of this promising oncology target.
Insights
ATR protein kinase inhibitors are crucial for genome integrity and DNA damage response. These inhibitors show promise in cancer therapy by enhancing DNA damage, especially when combined with cross-linking agents.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- ATR protein kinase is vital for maintaining genome integrity.
- It plays a key role in coordinating DNA damage response and repair signaling pathways.
- Inhibiting ATR disrupts signaling from stalled replication forks, increasing DNA damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on small molecule inhibitors of ATR.
- To provide a comprehensive summary of ATR as a promising oncology target.
- To compile research from both academic and pharmaceutical sources.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published research on ATR inhibitors.
- Analysis of studies focusing on small molecule inhibitors of ATR.
- Compilation of data from academic and pharmaceutical industry research.
Main Results:
- ATR inhibitors prevent signaling from stalled replication forks.
- Inhibition of ATR enhances DNA damage formation, particularly under replication stress.
- ATR/CHK1 checkpoint inhibitors can potentiate DNA cross-linking agents.
Conclusions:
- ATR inhibitors are a promising therapeutic strategy in oncology.
- Clinical trials are underway for ATR inhibitors, indicating significant potential.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on ATR inhibitors for cancer treatment.
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