Cancer research identifies new biomarkers and resistance mediators

Recent medical research has identified potential new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. One study focused on the tyrosine kinase SRMS, aiming to understand its cellular functions and proximity partners. Using Biotin Identification (BioID) and mass spectrometry, researchers identified proteins such as Insulin Receptor Substrate 4 (IRS4) and Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase FKBP4 (FKBP4) as interacting partners, both of which are linked to PI3K–AKT signaling.

In a separate study, FGF19 was identified as a candidate serum biomarker for colorectal cancer (CRC). Research showed that FGF19 is expressed and secreted by CRC cell lines, with levels in mouse serum correlating to tumor volume. Additionally, the study found that tumor-derived FGF19 can suppress bile acid synthesis in the liver.

Furthermore, research into breast cancer has highlighted FGFR4 as a mediator of resistance to anti-HER2 therapies in the HER2-enriched subtype. Findings suggest that using the FGFR4 inhibitor BLU554 in combination with anti-HER2 treatments can synergistically reduce cell viability and induce apoptosis in resistant cells.