Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Cancer

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play a critical role in a variety of cellular processes including growth, differentiation, motility, and metabolism. RTKs are frequently overexpressed and their aberrant signalling is associated with various diseases including cancer. Thus, RTKs have become one of the most important druggable targets for the treatment of cancer. The emergence of small kinase inhibitors in cancer treatment offers a strategic approach to the management of cancer that surpasses the efficacy of traditional drugs.

Understanding RTK signaling mechanisms is of paramount importance, especially as the US FDA and other global regulatory agencies have approved several small-molecule tyrosine inhibitors. Moreover, pharmaceutical companies are actively developing new compounds for the treatment of various malignancies.

This comprehensive book addresses a timely need by presenting the latest advances and cutting-edge insights into RTKs in cancer research. The chapters provide overviews and recent developments regarding the roles of key RTKs —such as, c-Met, AXL, VEGFR, EGFR, among others—in pro-tumorigenic signaling, therapeutic resistance, and targeted inhibition across different cancer types. This volume serves as an essential resource for researchers and students seeking to deepen their understanding of this rapidly evolving field.