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Biological Significance and Targeting of the FGFR Axis in Cancer

Athina-Myrto Chioni1, Richard P Grose2

  • 1School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK.

Cancers
|November 27, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are crucial for tissue development and repair. Aberrant FGFR signaling drives cancer, prompting targeted therapies, though tumor complexity can cause treatment resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Cell Signaling

Background:

  • Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors (FGFRs) exhibit pleiotropic effects and are widely expressed.
  • The FGF/FGFR axis is vital for normal tissue development, homeostasis, and repair.
  • Dysregulated FGFR signaling is implicated in various diseases, particularly cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structure and function of FGFs and FGFRs.
  • To discuss common FGFR aberrations in cancer.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting the FGF/FGFR axis in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on FGFR signaling pathways.
  • Analysis of genetic aberrations (mutations, fusions, amplifications) in FGFRs in cancer.
  • Examination of therapeutic strategies targeting the FGF/FGFR axis.

Main Results:

  • FGFR signaling is complex and essential for normal physiological processes.
  • Aberrant FGFR signaling, including mutations and gene fusions, contributes significantly to tumorigenesis.
  • Numerous targeted therapies, including inhibitors and antibodies, are being investigated and utilized in cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the FGF/FGFR axis is a promising therapeutic strategy in oncology.
  • Tumor microenvironment heterogeneity and signaling complexity can lead to resistance to FGFR-targeted therapies.
  • Further research is needed to overcome therapeutic resistance and optimize FGFR-targeted treatments for cancer patients.
Keywords:
FGFR inhibitorsFGFR mutationsFGFR signallingcancerfibroblast growth factortargeting FGFR

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