Rho GTPases as therapeutic targets in cancer (Review)

Int J Oncol. 2017 Oct;51(4):1025-1034. doi: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4093. Epub 2017 Aug 9.

Abstract

Rho GTPases are key molecular switches controlling the transduction of external signals to cytoplasmic and nuclear effectors. In the last few years, the development of genetic and pharmacological tools has allowed a more precise definition of the specific roles of Rho GTPases in cancer. The aim of the present review is to describe the cellular functions regulated by these proteins with focus in deregulated signals present in malignant tumors. Finally, we describe the state of the art in search of different experimental therapeutic strategies with Rho GTPases as molecular targets.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / enzymology*
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins