BTK
OVERVIEW1
Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) is a signaling molecule of the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) and cytokine receptor pathways. BTK’s role in signaling through the B-cell surface receptors results in activation of pathways necessary for B-cell trafficking, chemotaxis, and adhesion.
IMPLICATIONS IN CANCER2
BTK is critical for oncogenic signaling in multiple B-cell malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) and Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia (WM). Malignant B cell survival, proliferation, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment require BTK. Constitutively active pathways essential for malignant B-cell survival in CLL require BTK. Phosphorylated BTK triggers NF-kb signaling in WM leading to survival and proliferation.
Related Research
- Dobrovolsky D, et al. Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Degradation as a Therapeutic Strategy for Cancer. Blood. 2019;133(9):952-961.
- Singh P, et al. Role of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase in B cells and malignancies. Mol Cancer. 2018;17(57).
