Therapeutic potential of STK17A targeted therapies

STK17A (serine/threonine kinase 17a), also known as DRAK1 (death-associated protein kinase-related apoptosis-inducing protein kinase 1), is a member of the death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) family and acts as a positive regulator of apoptosis. STK17A is a dark kinase and is an understudied member in the DAPK family. Thus far, it has been found to serve a significant role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, tumor metastasis, and tumorigenesis. This review summarizes the structure of STK17A, its reported biological functions, and expression in cancer. Small molecule inhibitors for STK17A, including those specifically developed for STK17A and those designed for other kinases but also inhibit STK17A as an unintended target, are discussed. Finally, some outlooks for drug discovery regarding STK17A are described.