TAM kinases as regulators of cell death
Sean M Post1, Michael Andreeff2, Courtney DiNardo1
1Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States of America.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta. Molecular Cell Research
|March 1, 2021
Summary
The TAM receptor tyrosine kinases (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) are crucial for cancer cell survival and immune evasion. These kinases also play a role in viral infections, including potentially COVID-19, highlighting their broad biological significance.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) regulate vital cellular processes.
- Dysregulated RTK activity drives cancer development, progression, and treatment resistance.
- The TAM family (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) of RTKs is increasingly recognized for its role in malignancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of TAM kinases in cancer biology.
- To explore the involvement of TAM kinases in immune surveillance and viral pathogenesis.
- To discuss the potential significance of TAM kinases in COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on TAM kinases, cancer, and viral infections.
- Analysis of the mechanisms by which TAM kinases influence malignant cells.
- Examination of the role of TAM kinases in immune responses.
Main Results:
- TAM kinases promote cancer cell survival, proliferation, immune evasion, and metastasis.
- They function as co-receptors for mutant RTKs and regulate immune checkpoints.
- TAM kinases are implicated in host responses to viral infections and potentially COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- TAM kinases are critical mediators of cancer progression and immune modulation.
- Their roles in viral infections, including COVID-19, warrant further investigation.
- Targeting TAM kinases may offer therapeutic strategies for cancer and infectious diseases.
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