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Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

Daniel R Simpson1, Loren K Mell1, Ezra E W Cohen2

  • 1Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.

Oral Oncology
|December 24, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Targeting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway offers a new approach for advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). This strategy may improve outcomes when used alone or with other therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) has a poor prognosis despite novel therapies.
  • Current targeted therapies like cetuximab (anti-EGFR) face resistance, necessitating new treatment strategies.
  • The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway is crucial in SCCHN progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibitors in treating advanced SCCHN.
  • To explore the role of PI3K pathway inhibitors as monotherapy and in combination treatments.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on PI3K pathway inhibitors in SCCHN.
  • Analysis of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway's role in SCCHN pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting.
  • Evaluation of resistance mechanisms to EGFR-targeted therapy.

Main Results:

  • The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is frequently dysregulated in SCCHN and contributes to tumor growth and survival.
  • Preclinical data suggest PI3K inhibitors can suppress SCCHN growth.
  • Combination strategies involving PI3K inhibitors may overcome resistance to other therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the PI3K pathway represents a promising therapeutic strategy for advanced SCCHN.
  • Further clinical investigation of PI3K inhibitors, alone and in combination, is warranted.
  • Developing novel therapies is critical to improve clinical outcomes for SCCHN patients.
Keywords:
PI3K inhibitorsPI3K/AKT/mTOR pathwaySquamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

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