Cancer therapy through control of cell migration

Curr Cancer Drug Targets. 2005 Nov;5(7):505-18. doi: 10.2174/156800905774574048.

Abstract

Cell migration plays a pivotal role in a many biological process that are essential for development, repair, and pathogenesis. Thus, inhibition of migration has the potential of limiting or suppressing the development of various diseases. Much of the focus on the therapeutic treatment of cancer has involved compounds that target cell proliferation and subsequent cell death. However, targeting migration is another approach that has not been pursued but holds promise for alternative means of therapy. One such potential therapeutic is a small protein that inhibits the migration of a number of cell types. This protein is derived from the amino terminal end of the 24 kDa form of fibroblast growth factor, and suppresses migration in the presence of a variety of growth factors. Analysis of the protein in mouse models shows that it inhibits in vivo angiogenesis and tumor growth at low concentrations. Thus, inhibition of migration is a viable alternative to more traditional methods of therapeutically treating tumors. Further study of the mechanism of inhibition can lead to the development of novel drugs targeting a distinctive cell process.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Movement / drug effects*
  • Cell Movement / physiology
  • Cell Proliferation / drug effects
  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 / pharmacology
  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 / therapeutic use
  • Growth Substances / pharmacology
  • Growth Substances / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology

Substances

  • Growth Substances
  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2