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Targeting protein kinase C subtypes in pancreatic cancer

Peter Storz1

  • 1Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Griffin Building, Room 306, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.

Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy
|January 22, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Targeting atypical and novel protein kinase C (PKC) enzymes, not classical ones, shows promise for pancreatic cancer treatment. New inhibitors offer potential therapeutic strategies for this challenging disease.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Protein kinase C (PKC) enzymes are implicated in pancreatic cancer progression.
  • Previous clinical trials targeting classical PKC isoforms were unsuccessful.
  • Atypical and novel PKC enzymes are now recognized as key regulators in pancreatic cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of atypical and novel PKC enzymes in pancreatic cancer.
  • To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting these PKC subgroups.
  • To explore novel inhibitor development for pancreatic cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical and clinical studies on PKC inhibitors in pancreatic cancer.
  • Analysis of signaling pathways regulated by atypical and novel PKC enzymes.
  • Description of various inhibitor development approaches, including allosteric and ATP-binding inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • Classical PKC isoform inhibitors failed in clinical trials.
  • Atypical and novel PKC enzymes are crucial for oncogenic signaling in pancreatic cancer.
  • These PKC subgroups integrate signals from mutant Kras, growth factors, and cytokines.
  • Development of novel inhibitors targeting atypical and novel PKC enzymes is ongoing.

Conclusions:

  • Focusing on atypical and novel PKC enzymes represents a promising therapeutic direction for pancreatic cancer.
  • Novel inhibitor strategies, including allosteric and ATP-binding inhibitors, offer new hope.
  • Further research into these specific PKC targets is warranted for effective pancreatic cancer treatment.
Keywords:
inhibitorpancreatic cancerprotein kinase Ctherapy

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