Targeting fusion proteins in solid tumors: from oncogenic mechanisms to clinical interventions

Fusion proteins are implicated in a wide range of solid tumors, including lung cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer, and play a critical role in tumor initiation and progression through diverse molecular mechanisms. In this review, we provide an overview of the mechanisms underlying the generation of fusion proteins in solid tumors and their oncogenic roles, classifying these proteins based on different carcinogenic mechanisms. We then highlight the current research progress on targeted intervention strategies for fusion proteins in solid tumors, including small molecule inhibitors, antibody drugs, and therapeutic attempts utilizing new technologies such as gene editing. Additionally, we review specific case studies to demonstrate the effectiveness of targeting fusion proteins in clinical trials. Thus, we emphasize the importance of further investigating the mechanisms of fusion proteins in solid tumors and the urgent need for the development of innovative targeted intervention strategies to improve clinical outcomes in cancer treatment.