Src family kinases and their role in hematological malignancies

Abstract

The Src family protein tyrosine kinases (SFKs) are non-receptor intracellular kinases that have important roles in both hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis. The derangement of their expression or activation has been demonstrated to contribute to hematological malignancies. This review first examines the mechanisms of SFK overexpression and hyperactivation, emphasizing the dysregulation of the upstream modulators. Subsequently, the role of SFK up-regulation in the initiation, progression and therapy resistance of many hematological malignancies is also analyzed. The presented evidence endeavors to highlight the influence of SFK up-regulation on an extensive number of hematological malignancies and the need to consider them as candidates in targeted anticancer therapy.

Keywords::

• Genetic and other predisposing conditions
• transcription factor changes
• signal transduction
• myeloid leukemias and dysplasias
• lymphoid leukemia
• lymphoma and Hodgkin disease

Potential conflict of interest: Disclosure forms provided by the authors are available with the full text of this article at www.informahealthcare.com/lal.