Oncogenic kinase fusions: an evolving arena with innovative clinical opportunities.

TitleOncogenic kinase fusions: an evolving arena with innovative clinical opportunities.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsTabbo F, Pizzi M, Kyriakides PW, Ruggeri B, Inghirami G
JournalOncotarget
Volume7
Issue18
Pagination25064-86
Date Published2016 May 03
ISSN1949-2553
KeywordsAnimals, Hematologic Neoplasms, Humans, Oncogene Proteins, Fusion, Protein-Tyrosine Kinases
Abstract

Cancer biology relies on intrinsic and extrinsic deregulated pathways, involving a plethora of intra-cellular and extra-cellular components. Tyrosine kinases are frequently deregulated genes, whose aberrant expression is often caused by major cytogenetic events (e.g. chromosomal translocations). The resulting tyrosine kinase fusions (TKFs) prompt the activation of oncogenic pathways, determining the biological and clinical features of the associated tumors. First reported half a century ago, oncogenic TKFs are now found in a large series of hematologic and solid tumors. The molecular basis of TKFs has been thoroughly investigated and tailored therapies against recurrent TKFs have recently been developed. This review illustrates the biology of oncogenic TKFs and their role in solid as well as hematological malignancies. We also address the therapeutic implications of TKFs and the many open issues concerning their clinical impact.

DOI10.18632/oncotarget.7853
Alternate JournalOncotarget
PubMed ID26943776
PubMed Central IDPMC5041889
Related Faculty: 
Giorgio Inghirami, M.D.

Pathology & Laboratory Medicine 1300 York Avenue New York, NY 10065 Phone: (212) 746-6464
Surgical Pathology: (212) 746-2700