The SRC family of protein tyrosine kinases: a new and promising target for colorectal cancer therapy

Clin Colorectal Cancer. 2010 Apr;9(2):89-94. doi: 10.3816/CCC.2010.n.012.

Abstract

Aberrant activation of the Src family of tyrosine kinases has been implicated in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). As a result, Src inhibitors are now being studied as possible therapeutic agents to treat metastatic disease. In this review, we discuss the effects of aberrant Src activation in CRC, Src as a target of single-agent drug therapy, and Src as a target of combination therapy with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition and cytotoxic chemotherapy. The greatest potential for clinically relevant benefit most likely lies in combination regimens. Further evaluation with biomarkers will continue to define the molecular phenotype of patients with CRC who will benefit the most from Src-based therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Disease Progression
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • src-Family Kinases / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • src-Family Kinases / drug effects
  • src-Family Kinases / metabolism

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • EGFR protein, human
  • ErbB Receptors
  • src-Family Kinases