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Targeting Signaling Pathway Networks in Several Malignant Tumors: Progresses and Challenges

Hongdan He1, Xiaoni Shao2, Yanan Li2

  • 1Qinghai Tibet Plateau Research Institute, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China.

Frontiers in Pharmacology
|June 17, 2021
PubMed

Insights

This review summarizes key cancer signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, their molecular mechanisms, and miRNA roles. It also covers targeted molecular drugs for improved cancer treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Malignant tumors pose a significant global health challenge due to high mortality and recurrence rates.
  • Aberrant signaling pathway regulation is a common driver in cancer generation, metastasis, and invasion.
  • The Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Notch, and NF-kB pathways are critically involved in major solid tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an innovative summary of recent research on key cancer signaling pathways.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these pathways and the role of microRNAs (miRNAs).
  • To review molecular drugs targeting these pathways for improved cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent advancements in cancer signaling pathway research.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms and the involvement of miRNAs in tumor development.
  • Compilation of information on targeted antitumor drugs and their mechanisms of action.

Main Results:

  • Detailed overview of the Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Notch, and NF-kB pathways in major cancers.
  • Explanation of how specific molecules and miRNAs regulate these pathways in tumorigenesis.
  • Identification of targeted molecular drugs and their potential in cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding these signaling pathways and their crosstalk is crucial for deciphering malignant tumor biology.
  • miRNAs play a significant role in tumor-related signaling pathways.
  • Targeted therapies offer a promising avenue for developing effective cancer treatments with reduced side effects.
Keywords:
antitumor molecular drugsmalignant tumorsmiRNAsignaling pathwaytargeted therapy

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