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Evaluation of the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint Integrity in Mouse Oocytes
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Spindle Assembly Checkpoint as a Potential Target in Colorectal Cancer: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Vânia Diogo1, Joana Teixeira1, Patrícia M A Silva2
1CESPU, Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Gandra, Paredes, Portugal; Departamento Ciências Biomédicas e Medicina, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
Abstract:
Colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the most common malignancies worldwide, is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, and resistance to chemotherapeutic and existing targeted therapy is a major obstacle to its successful treatment. New targets that offer alternative clinical options are therefore urgently needed. Recently, perturbation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), the surveillance mechanism that maintains anaphase inhibition until all chromosomes reach the metaphase plate, has been regarded as a promising target to fight cancer cells, either alone or in combination regimens. Consistent with this strategy, many cancers, including CRC, exhibit altered expression of SAC genes. In this article, we review our current knowledge on SAC activity status in CRC, and on current anti-CRC strategies and future therapeutic perspectives on the basis of SAC targeting experiments in vitro and in animal models.
Insights
Targeting the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) offers a novel strategy against colorectal cancer (CRC). Disrupting SAC function shows promise for new CRC treatments, addressing therapy resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Genetics
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy often diagnosed at advanced stages.
- Therapeutic resistance to chemotherapy and targeted treatments poses a significant challenge in CRC management.
- Novel therapeutic targets are crucial for improving CRC treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) activity in colorectal cancer.
- To explore existing and emerging anti-CRC strategies focused on SAC targeting.
- To discuss future therapeutic perspectives for CRC based on SAC modulation.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on SAC gene expression and function in CRC.
- Analysis of in vitro and animal model studies investigating SAC targeting in CRC.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on CRC treatment resistance and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Altered expression of SAC genes is observed in various cancers, including CRC.
- Perturbation of the SAC is a promising strategy for cancer therapy, potentially overcoming resistance.
- In vitro and animal studies demonstrate the potential of SAC targeting in CRC models.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) presents a viable therapeutic avenue for colorectal cancer.
- Modulating SAC activity could offer alternative treatment options for CRC patients, especially those with resistant disease.
- Further research into SAC-targeting agents is warranted to develop effective clinical strategies against CRC.
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