Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
Identifying the dominant genetic alterations that drive tumorigenesis is essential for developing targeted cancer therapies. Recent work has demonstrated that prostate tumors can be stratified by dominant genetic alterations, such as chromosomal rearrangements involving ETS (Erythroblastosis virus E26 transformation-specific) family transcription factors or overexpression of SPINK1, a gene that encodes a secreted serine protease inhibitor. In this issue of Science Translational Medicine, Ateeq et al. provide evidence to support a rationale for targeting the SPINK1 protein in the SPINK1(+)/ETS(-) subset of prostate tumors and also describe a potential interaction of SPINK1 with epidermal growth factor receptor that could be an additional target for therapeutic intervention.
Written by:
Goldstein AS, Zong Y, Witte ON.
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Reference: Sci Transl Med. 2011 Mar 2;3(72):72ps7.
doi: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3002169
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 21368221
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