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Updated: Dec 24, 2025

Development and Maintenance of a Preclinical Patient Derived Tumor Xenograft Model for the Investigation of Novel Anti-Cancer Therapies
Published on: September 30, 2016
Targeted Avenues for Cancer Treatment: The MEK5-ERK5 Signaling Pathway
Diane M Pereira1, Cecília M P Rodrigues1
1Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
Abstract:
Twenty years have passed since extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) and its upstream activator, mitogen-activated protein kinase 5 (MEK5), first emerged onto the cancer research scene. Although we have come a long way in defining the liaison between dysregulated MEK5-ERK5 signaling and the pathogenesis of epithelial and nonepithelial malignancies, selective targeting of this unique pathway remains elusive. Here, we provide an updated review of the existing evidence for a correlation between aberrant MEK5-ERK5 (phospho)proteomic/transcriptomic profiles, aggressive cancer states, and poor patient outcomes. We then focus on emerging insights from preclinical models regarding the relevance of upregulated ERK5 activity in promoting tumor growth, metastasis, therapy resistance, undifferentiated traits, and immunosuppression, highlighting the opportunities, prospects, and challenges of selectively blocking this cascade for antineoplastic treatment and chemosensitization.
Insights
Dysregulated MEK5-ERK5 signaling drives aggressive cancers and poor outcomes. Targeting this pathway offers potential for novel cancer therapies and chemosensitization.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Signal Transduction
Background:
- The MEK5-ERK5 signaling pathway is implicated in various cancers.
- Dysregulation of this pathway is linked to disease progression and patient prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence correlating MEK5-ERK5 signaling with cancer pathogenesis.
- To explore preclinical insights into targeting MEK5-ERK5 for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on MEK5-ERK5 signaling in cancer.
- Analysis of preclinical models investigating ERK5 activity.
Main Results:
- Aberrant MEK5-ERK5 profiles correlate with aggressive cancers and poor patient outcomes.
- Upregulated ERK5 activity promotes tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance.
Conclusions:
- Selective targeting of the MEK5-ERK5 pathway presents therapeutic opportunities.
- Blocking this cascade may enhance antineoplastic treatment and chemosensitization.
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