The PI3K Pathway in Human Disease

David A Fruman1, Honyin Chiu1, Benjamin D Hopkins2

  • 1Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, USA.

Cell
|August 13, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling is crucial in cancer. New research explores PI3K

Area of Science:

  • Oncology and Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Elevated phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling is a hallmark of cancer, driven by oncogenes and growth factors.
  • PI3K pathway-targeted therapies are advancing, with some approved for blood cancers and others in development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a perspective on the roles of class I PI3Ks in cellular metabolism and immune function.
  • To discuss how these roles impact PI3K-targeted cancer therapies.
  • To review recent progress in developing PI3K-targeted therapies for cancer and other diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature and research findings on PI3K functions.
  • Analysis of the interplay between PI3K, metabolism, immunity, and cancer.
  • Discussion of current and emerging PI3K-targeted therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • PI3K subunits play significant roles in normal cellular metabolism and immune system functions.
  • These non-oncogenic roles can influence the efficacy and toxicity of PI3K-targeted cancer therapies.
  • Diverse PI3K inhibitors are in various stages of clinical development for multiple diseases.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the broader functions of PI3Ks in metabolism and immunity is critical for optimizing cancer therapy.
  • Further research into PI3K regulation and targeted inhibition holds promise for improved cancer treatment and management of related toxicities.

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