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Accelerating AXL targeting for TNBC therapy
1Molecular Cell Biology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
Abstract:
The tyrosine kinase receptor AXL of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL and MERTK) family is considered as a promising therapeutic target for different hematological cancers and solid tumors. AXL is involved in multiple pro-tumorigenic processes including cell migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and stemness, and recent studies demonstrated its impact on cancer metastasis and drug resistance. Extensive studies on AXL have highlighted its unique characteristics and physiological functions and suggest that targeting of AXL could be beneficial in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. In this mini review, we discuss possible outcomes of AXL targeting either alone or together with other therapeutic agents and emphasize its impact on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Insights
Targeting the AXL receptor tyrosine kinase shows promise for treating various cancers. AXL inhibition may enhance efficacy when combined with other cancer therapies, particularly for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Therapeutics
Background:
- The TAM receptor tyrosine kinase AXL plays a crucial role in cancer progression.
- AXL is implicated in tumor-promoting activities such as metastasis and drug resistance.
- AXL is a potential therapeutic target for both hematological and solid tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of targeting AXL in cancer treatment.
- To explore the outcomes of AXL inhibition alone and in combination with other therapies.
- To emphasize the role of AXL in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Main Methods:
- Mini-review of existing scientific literature on AXL.
- Analysis of AXL's involvement in tumorigenic processes.
- Discussion of combination therapy strategies involving AXL targeting.
Main Results:
- AXL is integral to cell migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and stemness.
- Targeting AXL demonstrates potential benefits in overcoming cancer metastasis and drug resistance.
- AXL inhibition may synergize with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Conclusions:
- AXL is a significant therapeutic target in oncology.
- Combined therapeutic strategies involving AXL inhibition show promise for various cancers.
- AXL targeting is particularly relevant for treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
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