Reversing multidrug resistance by tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Chin J Cancer. 2012 Mar;31(3):126-33. doi: 10.5732/cjc.011.10315. Epub 2012 Jan 9.

Abstract

Recently, a large number of tyrosine kinase inhibitors(TKIs) have been developed as anticancer agents. These TKIs can specifically and selectively inhibit tumor cell growth and metastasis by targeting various tyrosine kinases and thereby interfering with cellular signaling pathways. The therapeutic potential of TKIs has been hindered by multidrug resistance(MDR), which is commonly caused by overexpression of ATP-binding cassette(ABC) membrane transporters. Interestingly, some TKIs have also been found to reverse MDR by directly inhibiting the function of ABC transporters and enhancing the efficacy of conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. In this review, we discuss ABC transporter-mediated MDR to TKIs and MDR reversal by TKIs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / physiology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple / drug effects*
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • Protein-Tyrosine Kinases