A recent update on small-molecule kinase inhibitors for targeted cancer therapy and their therapeutic insights from mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis

Kinases are key regulatory signalling proteins governing numerous essential biological processes and cellular functions. Dysregulation of many protein kinases is associated with cancer initiation and progression. Given their crucial roles, there has been increasing interest in harnessing kinases as prospective drug targets for cancer. In recent decades, numerous small-molecule kinase inhibitors have been developed and revolutionized the cancer treatment landscape. Despite their great potential, challenges remain in developing highly selective and effective kinase inhibitors, with toxicity and resistance issues frequently arising. In this review, we first provide an overview of the role of kinases in carcinogenesis and describe the current progress with small-molecule kinase inhibitors that have been approved for clinical use. We then discuss the application of mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics strategies to help in the design of kinase inhibitors. Finally, we discuss the challenges and outlook concerning MS-based proteomics techniques for kinase drug research.

Automated summary

Kinases play important roles in regulating biological processes and are associated with cancer. Small-molecule kinase inhibitors have revolutionized cancer treatment, but their selectivity and effectiveness are still challenging. This review provides an overview of the role of kinases in carcinogenesis, the progress of approved small-molecule kinase inhibitors, and the application of mass spectrometry-based proteomics strategies in kinase inhibitor design. It also discusses the challenges and outlook of mass spectrometry-based proteomics techniques for kinase drug research.