Work

Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway: Biomarkers of Success and Tribulation

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is an established oncogenic driver in humans. Targeted biologic agents against components of this pathway have shown promising activity leading to the approval of the allosteric inhibitors of mTOR, everolimus, and temsirolimus for the treatment of advanced cancers of the kidney, breast, and pancreas. Despite the established and promising activity of this therapeutic strategy, the duration and quality of benefit remains suboptimal in unselected patients. Improved understanding of the biologic consequence of altered PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling is informing the development of protein (phosphorylated forms of S6, AKT, eIF4e) and genetic (PIK3CA mutation, PTEN loss of function, TSC1 and TSC2 mutation, PIK3CA-GS genetic profile) biomarkers to identify patients most likely to benefit from this therapeutic strategy. This review provides an overview of the biologic rational and promising results of protein and genetic biomarkers for selecting patients appropriate for therapy with inhibitors of this pathway.

Source: American Society of Clinical Oncology Educational Book

DOI: 10.1200/edbook_am.2013.33.e395

Authors: Taofeek K. Owonikoko, Fadlo R. Khuri

Institutions: Emory University, Winship Cancer Institute

Language: English

Topic: PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in cancer

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Cancer Institute