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Updated: Mar 24, 2026
Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
Published on: July 5, 2019
Oncogenic kinase fusions: an evolving arena with innovative clinical opportunities
Fabrizio Tabbò1,2, Marco Pizzi2,3, Peter W Kyriakides2
1Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Science and Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CeRMS), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
Abstract:
Cancer biology relies on intrinsic and extrinsic deregulated pathways, involving a plethora of intra-cellular and extra-cellular components. Tyrosine kinases are frequently deregulated genes, whose aberrant expression is often caused by major cytogenetic events (e.g. chromosomal translocations). The resulting tyrosine kinase fusions (TKFs) prompt the activation of oncogenic pathways, determining the biological and clinical features of the associated tumors. First reported half a century ago, oncogenic TKFs are now found in a large series of hematologic and solid tumors. The molecular basis of TKFs has been thoroughly investigated and tailored therapies against recurrent TKFs have recently been developed. This review illustrates the biology of oncogenic TKFs and their role in solid as well as hematological malignancies. We also address the therapeutic implications of TKFs and the many open issues concerning their clinical impact.
Insights
Tyrosine kinase fusions (TKFs) are key drivers in many cancers, arising from genetic events like translocations. Understanding TKFs is crucial for developing targeted therapies against hematologic and solid tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cancer development involves complex deregulated intra- and extra-cellular pathways.
- Aberrant expression of tyrosine kinases, often due to chromosomal translocations, leads to oncogenic tyrosine kinase fusions (TKFs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biology of oncogenic TKFs.
- To discuss the role of TKFs in hematologic and solid tumors.
- To explore therapeutic implications and clinical impact of TKFs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of oncogenic tyrosine kinase fusions.
- Analysis of molecular basis and clinical significance of TKFs.
- Discussion of current and future therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Oncogenic TKFs are implicated in a wide range of hematologic and solid malignancies.
- The molecular mechanisms underlying TKF activation have been extensively studied.
- Targeted therapies against recurrent TKFs have shown recent success.
Conclusions:
- TKFs play a significant role in cancer pathogenesis.
- Targeted therapies offer promising avenues for treating TKF-driven cancers.
- Further research is needed to address open clinical questions regarding TKFs.
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