Therapeutics: K-Ras (KRAS)

INDICATION: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)In vitro and mouse studies suggest rapamycin plus a bisphosphonate could help treat KRAS-mutant NSCLC. In lung cancer cells expressing a KRAS activating mutation, a lipophilic bisphosphonate induced cell death by inhibiting protein prenylation and blocking KRAS activation. In a mouse model of KRAS-mutant cancer, the bisphosphonate plus rapamycin suppressed tumor growth more than either agent alone. Next steps include testing marketed bisphosphonates plus rapamycin in lung cancer patients.Novartis AG markets the bisphosphonate Reclast zoledronic acid to treat musculoskeletal disorders and bone metastases. At least six other companies market bisphosphonates to treat musculoskeletal disorders.

TARGET/MARKER/PATHWAY: K-Ras (KRAS)...