Cancer cell proliferation pathway

The "cancer cell proliferation pathway" encompasses multiple molecular signaling cascades, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Ras/MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo, which regulate and enable the uncontrolled division and survival of cancer cells. These pathways are frequently dysregulated in tumors due to genetic mutations, amplifications, or other alterations that bypass normal cell cycle controls and apoptosis, leading to unchecked tumor growth. Therapeutic efforts center on inhibiting critical signal transducers (e.g., protein kinases, growth factor receptors) within these pathways to halt proliferation and induce tumor regression, but the diversity and adaptability of these networks pose significant challenges to treatment efficacy and safety.

Other names

cell cycle pathwayoncogenic signaling pathway

Mechanisms depend on target protein, including kinase inhibition (e.g., CDK4/6, PI3K, MEK) and receptor blockade (e.g., EGFR).