Skeletal metastasis: treatments, mouse models, and the Wnt signaling

Chin J Cancer. 2013 Jul;32(7):380-96. doi: 10.5732/cjc.012.10218. Epub 2013 Jan 18.

Abstract

Skeletal metastases result in significant morbidity and mortality. This is particularly true of cancers with a strong predilection for the bone, such as breast, prostate, and lung cancers. There is currently no reliable cure for skeletal metastasis, and palliative therapy options are limited. The Wnt signaling pathway has been found to play an integral role in the process of skeletal metastasis and may be an important clinical target. Several experimental models of skeletal metastasis have been used to find new biomarkers and test new treatments. In this review, we discuss pathologic process of bone metastasis, the roles of the Wnt signaling, and the available experimental models and treatments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Bone Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Bone Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Bone Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Bone Neoplasms / surgery
  • Breast Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Wnt Proteins / metabolism*
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway*
  • beta Catenin / metabolism

Substances

  • Wnt Proteins
  • beta Catenin