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Published on: July 21, 2018
Unexpected oncosuppressive role for STAT3 in KRAS-induced lung tumorigenesis
Beatrice Grabner1, Herwig P Moll2, Emilio Casanova3
1Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research (LBI-CR) , Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of several diseases and is considered a therapeutic target in solid cancers, including lung cancer. However, we recently demonstrated a tumor suppressive function of STAT3 in kirsten rat sarcoma oncogene homolog (KRAS)-driven lung cancer. Here, we discuss these findings and their consequences.
Insights
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is usually a cancer target, but we found it suppresses tumors in KRAS-driven lung cancer. These findings challenge its role and offer new therapeutic insights.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is implicated in various diseases.
- STAT3 is a recognized therapeutic target for solid tumors, including lung cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the newly discovered tumor-suppressive role of STAT3.
- To explore the implications of STAT3's function in KRAS-driven lung cancer.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent findings on STAT3.
- Analysis of STAT3's role in KRAS-driven lung cancer pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- STAT3 exhibits a tumor-suppressive function in KRAS-driven lung cancer.
- This contradicts the conventional view of STAT3 as a universal oncogene.
Conclusions:
- The role of STAT3 is context-dependent, particularly in KRAS-driven lung cancer.
- These findings necessitate a re-evaluation of STAT3 as a therapeutic target in this specific cancer type.
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