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Targeting ligand-receptor interactions for development of cancer therapeutics
Jun Woo Kim1, Jennifer R Cochran2
1Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, United States; Stanford Cancer Institute, United States.
Abstract:
The biological importance and druggable properties of receptors and their cognate ligands have designated them as especially useful clinical targets. This significance continues to expand as new molecular insights underlying disease pathophysiology are uncovered. While both ligands and receptors have been exploited as drug targets, their differing biochemical properties require nuanced considerations for drug development, including where in the body they are located and how they are regulated on a cellular and molecular level. In this review we will discuss ligands and receptors as therapeutics targets, including their biodistribution and biological function. We provide examples of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) used to modulate the activity of these targets, and discuss approaches for using engineered versions of ligands and receptors themselves for therapeutic intervention in cancer.
Insights
Receptors and ligands are crucial drug targets due to their biological roles. This review explores their therapeutic potential, including monoclonal antibodies and engineered proteins for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Receptors and ligands are key targets in clinical medicine.
- Understanding their molecular roles in disease is expanding their therapeutic significance.
- Drug development requires careful consideration of ligand and receptor properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review ligands and receptors as therapeutic targets.
- To discuss their biodistribution and biological functions.
- To explore therapeutic strategies using monoclonal antibodies and engineered proteins.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ligand and receptor targeting strategies.
- Analysis of therapeutic applications of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).
- Discussion of engineered ligand and receptor therapeutics.
Main Results:
- Ligands and receptors offer significant druggable targets.
- Monoclonal antibodies are effective in modulating target activity.
- Engineered proteins present novel therapeutic avenues.
Conclusions:
- Ligands and receptors are vital therapeutic targets in medicine.
- Targeted therapies, including mAbs and engineered molecules, show promise in cancer treatment.
- Further research into ligand-receptor interactions can yield new drug development strategies.