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Updated: Aug 3, 2026
Human Neuroendocrine Tumor Cell Lines as a Three-Dimensional Model for the Study of Human Neuroendocrine Tumor Therapy
Published on: August 14, 2012
DLL3 as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target in neuroendocrine neoplasms: A narrative review
Annarita Peddio1, Erica Pietroluongo1, Maria Rosaria Lamia1
1Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, due to their heterogeneity and limited treatment options. Conventional imaging techniques and therapeutic strategies may become unreliable during follow-up, due to the tendency of these neoplasms to dedifferentiate over time. Therefore, novel diagnostic and therapeutic options are required for the management of NEN patients. Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), an inhibitory ligand of Notch receptor, has emerged as a potential target for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in NENs, since overexpression of DLL3 has been associated with tumor progression, poor prognosis and dedifferentiation in several NENs. This narrative review examines the current evidence about DLL3, its structure, function and association with tumorigenesis in NENs. Ongoing studies exploring the role of DLL3 as an emerging diagnostic marker are reviewed. Promising therapeutic options, such as antibody-conjugated drugs, CAR-T cells and radioimmunoconjugates, are also discussed.
Insights
Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) is a promising target for neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). Targeting DLL3 offers new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these challenging tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to heterogeneity and dedifferentiation.
- Current imaging and treatment strategies for NENs can be unreliable over time.
- Novel approaches are crucial for effective NEN patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) in NENs.
- To explore DLL3's role as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target.
- To discuss emerging DLL3-targeted therapies for NENs.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature on DLL3.
- Examination of DLL3 structure, function, and tumorigenesis association.
- Analysis of ongoing studies and therapeutic strategies targeting DLL3.
Main Results:
- DLL3 overexpression correlates with NEN progression, poor prognosis, and dedifferentiation.
- DLL3 shows potential as an emerging diagnostic marker for NENs.
- Several promising DLL3-targeted therapies are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- DLL3 represents a significant target for advancing NEN diagnostics and therapeutics.
- Targeting DLL3 may overcome limitations of conventional NEN management.
- Further research into DLL3-based strategies is warranted for improved patient outcomes.
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