Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2025

Development and Maintenance of a Preclinical Patient Derived Tumor Xenograft Model for the Investigation of Novel Anti-Cancer Therapies
Published on: September 30, 2016
Recent advances in the development of inhibitors targeting KRAS-G12C and its related pathways
Dongqiang Zhao1, Yu Liu1, Fengchao Yi1
1China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
Abstract:
The RAS gene, also known as the mouse sarcoma virus, includes three genes (KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS) that are associated with human tumors. Among them, KRAS has the highest incidence of mutations in cancer, accounting for around 80% of cases. At the molecular level, the RAS gene plays a regulatory role in transcription and translation, while at the cellular level, it affects cell proliferation and migration, making it crucial for cancer development. In 2021, the FDA approved AMG510, the first direct inhibitor targeting the KRAS-G12C mutation, which has shown tumor regression, prolonged survival, and low off-target activity. However, with the increase of drug resistance, a single inhibitor is no longer sufficient to achieve the desired effect on tumors. Therefore, a large number of other highly efficient inhibitors are being developed at different stages. This article provides an overview of the mechanism of action targeting KRAS-G12C in the KRASGTP-KRASGDP cycle pathway, as well as the structure-activity relationship, structure optimization, and biological activity effects of inhibitors that target the upstream and downstream pathways, or combination therapy.
Insights
KRAS mutations drive cancer, but resistance to single KRAS-G12C inhibitors like AMG510 is increasing. New therapies targeting KRAS pathways and combination treatments are crucial for overcoming drug resistance and improving cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- RAS genes (KRAS, HRAS, NRAS) are implicated in human tumors, with KRAS mutations found in approximately 80% of cancers.
- KRAS regulates gene transcription, translation, cell proliferation, and migration, making it a critical factor in cancer development.
- The KRAS-G12C mutation is a significant driver in various cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanism of action for KRAS-G12C inhibitors.
- To explore structure-activity relationships and optimization of novel KRAS inhibitors.
- To discuss combination therapies for overcoming drug resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on KRAS inhibitors and their mechanisms.
- Analysis of structure-activity relationships (SAR) for KRAS-G12C inhibitors.
- Examination of preclinical and clinical data on targeted therapies and combination strategies.
Main Results:
- AMG510, a KRAS-G12C inhibitor, demonstrated efficacy but faces challenges due to increasing drug resistance.
- Development of novel inhibitors targeting upstream and downstream pathways of KRAS is ongoing.
- Combination therapies show promise in enhancing anti-tumor effects and overcoming resistance.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the KRAS-G12C mutation is a validated therapeutic strategy, but resistance necessitates further research.
- Optimizing inhibitor design and exploring combination therapies are essential for improving patient outcomes in KRAS-mutated cancers.
- Continued investigation into KRAS pathway modulation offers significant potential for next-generation cancer treatments.
Related Concept Videos
Inhibition of Cdk Activity
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
The Ras Gene
Ras is a...
Small GTPases - Ras and Rho
Three regulatory proteins control their activity:
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle

