Tyrosine Factor/Growth Factor Inhibitors

Definition

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are a class of drugs that block the action of enzymes called tyrosine kinases, which play a role in cancer cell growth and proliferation. Growth factor inhibitors specifically target growth factors or their receptors to prevent cancer cells from receiving signals needed for their survival and division.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. TKIs are used in the treatment of various cancers including lung, breast, and blood cancers.
2. These inhibitors can lead to side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and skin rashes.
3. Imatinib was one of the first TKIs approved for use in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
4. Growth factor inhibitors often work by binding to the extracellular domain of receptor tyrosine kinases.
5. Resistance to TKIs can develop over time, necessitating combination therapies or second-generation inhibitors.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of tyrosine kinase inhibitors?
• Name a common side effect of growth factor inhibitors.
• What was one of the first approved TKIs used in cancer treatment?

Related terms

Monoclonal Antibodies: Antibodies engineered to bind specific proteins on cancer cells.

Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells.

Signal Transduction Inhibitors: Drugs that interfere with molecules involved in signaling pathways within cells.