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Alterations and molecular targeting of the GSK-3 regulator, PI3K, in head and neck cancer

Michelle J Lee1, Nan Jin2, Jennifer R Grandis2

  • 1School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.

Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta. Molecular Cell Research
|February 17, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) involves the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway. This review covers PI3K inhibitors, their clinical trials, and challenges in treating HNSCC.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a significant cancer with high morbidity.
  • The PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway is frequently dysregulated in HNSCC, making it a therapeutic target.
  • Understanding this pathway is crucial for developing effective HNSCC treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the PI3K pathway and its mutations in HNSCC.
  • To discuss PI3K inhibitors, their mechanisms, and clinical trials.
  • To explore the challenges associated with PI3K inhibitor therapy in HNSCC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of PI3K pathway in HNSCC.
  • Analysis of PI3K inhibitors and their impact on signaling axes (PI3K, GSK-3).
  • Summary of ongoing clinical trials and therapeutic challenges.

Main Results:

  • The PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway is a key player in HNSCC pathogenesis.
  • Various PI3K inhibitors are in clinical development for HNSCC.
  • The clinical application of PI3K inhibitors presents specific challenges.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the PI3K pathway offers a promising therapeutic strategy for HNSCC.
  • Further research is needed to optimize PI3K inhibitor efficacy and overcome resistance.
  • Clinical trials are essential to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of these agents.
Keywords:
GSK-3HNSCCHead and neck squamous cell carcinomaPI3KPIK3CA

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