[CDK4/6 signaling pathway and its targeted therapeutic agents in cancer therapy: a review]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Cancer development is linked to cell cycle dysregulation.
• Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) is crucial in mitosis and cancer progression, influencing aging, apoptosis, and histone modification.
• CDK4/6 inhibitors offer targeted therapy for endocrine therapy-resistant breast cancer and other malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the regulatory functions of CDK4/6 in biological processes.
• To summarize the clinical applications of FDA-approved CDK4/6 inhibitors (Palbociclib, Ribociclib, Abemaciclib).
• To discuss the challenge of acquired drug resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of CDK4/6 regulatory roles.
• Analysis of clinical applications of CDK4/6 inhibitors.
• Examination of mechanisms and challenges of drug resistance.

Main Results:

• CDK4/6 inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in prolonging survival for specific cancer types.
• Acquired drug resistance is a significant clinical limitation.
• Understanding CDK4/6 regulation is key to improving cancer therapy.

Conclusions:

• CDK4/6 inhibitors represent a valuable therapeutic strategy in oncology.
• Addressing acquired resistance is critical for sustained patient benefit.
• Further research into CDK4/6 pathways may yield improved cancer treatments.