Probing for a deeper understanding of rhabdomyosarcoma: insights from complementary model systems

Nat Rev Cancer. 2015 Jul;15(7):426-39. doi: 10.1038/nrc3961.

Abstract

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a mesenchymal malignancy composed of neoplastic primitive precursor cells that exhibit histological features of myogenic differentiation. Despite intensive conventional multimodal therapy, patients with high-risk RMS typically suffer from aggressive disease. The lack of directed therapies against RMS emphasizes the need to further uncover the molecular underpinnings of the disease. In this Review, we discuss the notable advances in the model systems now available to probe for new RMS-targetable pathogenetic mechanisms, and the possibilities for enhanced RMS therapeutics and improved clinical outcomes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Forkhead Box Protein O1
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Hedgehog Proteins / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Myoblasts / metabolism
  • PAX3 Transcription Factor
  • Paired Box Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins / genetics
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras)
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / etiology*
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / genetics
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma / therapy
  • Stem Cells / metabolism
  • ras Proteins / genetics

Substances

  • FOXO1 protein, human
  • Forkhead Box Protein O1
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors
  • Hedgehog Proteins
  • KRAS protein, human
  • PAX3 Transcription Factor
  • PAX3 protein, human
  • Paired Box Transcription Factors
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras)
  • ras Proteins