Targeting AXL in mesothelioma: From functional characterization to clinical implication

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive cancer with limited treatment options.
• Current therapies like chemotherapy and radiation show restricted efficacy.
• Axl receptor tyrosine kinase is implicated in tumor progression and metastasis across various cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the role of Axl in malignant mesothelioma (MM) progression, development, and metastasis.
• To elucidate Axl's regulatory mechanisms and associated signaling pathways in MM.
• To explore Axl's connection to immune evasion and its clinical implications for MM treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on Axl in cancer, particularly MM.
• Analysis of Axl's role in MM progression, metastasis, and immune evasion.
• Examination of Axl-targeting therapies, liquid biopsy, and microRNA signatures in MM.

Main Results:

• Axl expression is linked to poor survival, drug resistance, and immune evasion in cancers.
• The precise role and regulatory mechanisms of Axl in MM are not fully understood.
• Axl inhibitors are under investigation for various cancers, with potential for MM.

Conclusions:

• Axl is a promising therapeutic target for malignant mesothelioma.
• Further research into Axl's role and regulatory mechanisms in MM is crucial.
• Targeting Axl may offer novel treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes for MM.