FGFR Aberrations in Solid Tumors: Mechanistic Insights and Clinical Translation of Targeted Therapies

Aberrations in fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) constitute a key oncogenic mechanism across multiple solid tumors, influencing tumor initiation, therapeutic response, and clinical outcomes. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the molecular biology, signaling networks, and tumor-specific distribution of FGFR alterations, including amplifications, point mutations, and gene fusions. The mechanistic basis of FGFR-driven tumor progression is discussed, including activation of downstream signaling pathways, crosstalk with other receptor tyrosine kinases, and regulation of the tumor microenvironment, angiogenesis, and immune escape. Recent development of selective FGFR inhibitors-such as pemigatinib, erdafitinib, and futibatinib-has translated mechanistic insights into measurable clinical benefits in genomically defined patient populations. However, acquired resistance remains a major challenge, driven by secondary mutations, activation of bypass pathways, and intratumoral heterogeneity. Integration of multi-omics profiling, liquid biopsy monitoring, and biomarker-guided patient selection is essential to optimize therapeutic efficacy and overcome resistance. This review also highlights emerging therapeutic modalities, such as antibody-drug conjugates and nanotechnology-based delivery systems, which may improve target specificity and prolong therapeutic durability. By integrating molecular, translational, and clinical evidence, this review aims to establish a comprehensive framework for precision oncology strategies targeting FGFR-driven malignancies.