Inhibition of HGF/MET as therapy for malignancy

Background: Inhibition of inappropriate tyrosine kinase activity by neoplasms is an attractive strategy for the treatment of malignancy. Objective: We aimed to produce a concise review of the potential role of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/Mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) tyrosine kinase pathway inhibition in the treatment of cancer. Methods: The current literature, abstracts and internet resources related to HGF/MET structure, function and inhibition are summarized. The potential of inhibiting this pathway as a therapy for cancer and remaining hurdles prior to routine clinical use of MET inhibition are discussed. Results/conclusions: Current knowledge suggests that the inhibition of the HGF/MET pathway has significant potential for the treatment of cancer. A number of MET inhibitor molecules are nearing completion of their development for clinical use.