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Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
Published on: July 5, 2019
Targeting fusion oncoproteins in childhood cancers: challenges and future opportunities for developing therapeutics
Sharad K Verma1, Keren L Witkin2, Anu Sharman2
1Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Abstract:
Fusion oncoproteins are associated with childhood cancers and have proven challenging to target, aside from those that include kinases. As part of its efforts for targeting childhood cancers, the National Cancer Institute recently conducted a series on Novel Chemical Approaches for Targeting Fusion Oncoproteins. Key learnings on leading platforms and technologies that can be used to advance the development of molecular therapeutics that target fusion oncoproteins in childhood cancers are described. Recent breakthroughs in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology provide new ground and creative strategies to exploit for the development of targeted agents for improving outcomes against these recalcitrant cancers.
Insights
Targeting fusion oncoproteins in childhood cancers is difficult. Novel chemical and biological strategies are emerging to develop targeted therapies for these challenging pediatric cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Fusion oncoproteins are key drivers in many childhood cancers.
- Targeting these oncoproteins is challenging, except for kinase fusions.
- Pediatric cancers driven by fusion oncoproteins represent a significant unmet need.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel chemical approaches for targeting fusion oncoproteins in pediatric cancers.
- To identify leading platforms and technologies for developing targeted therapeutics.
- To explore innovative strategies for treating fusion-driven childhood cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.
- Analysis of National Cancer Institute initiatives on novel therapeutic strategies.
- Synthesis of key learnings on platforms and technologies for drug development.
Main Results:
- Identification of promising medicinal chemistry and chemical biology strategies.
- Highlighting of advanced platforms and technologies for therapeutic development.
- Discussion of creative approaches to overcome therapeutic resistance.
Conclusions:
- Recent breakthroughs offer new opportunities for developing targeted agents against fusion oncoproteins.
- Advanced chemical and biological strategies can improve outcomes for children with these cancers.
- Continued research in novel chemical approaches is crucial for pediatric cancer therapy.
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