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World J Gastrointest Oncol. May 15, 2013; 5(5): 97-101
Published online May 15, 2013. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v5.i5.97
Published online May 15, 2013. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v5.i5.97
RAS signaling pathways, mutations and their role in colorectal cancer
Kypros Zenonos, Katy Kyprianou, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 2TT, United Kingdom
Author contributions: Both authors contributed equally in researching the subject; Zenonos K wrote the report and Kyprianou K edited it.
Correspondence to: Dr. Kypros Zenonos, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Flat 2, 250 High Street, Birmingham B17 9PT, United Kingdom. kxz908@bham.ac.uk
Telephone: +44-776-6737215 Fax: +44-776-6737215
Received: February 16, 2013
Revised: March 26, 2013
Accepted: April 10, 2013
Published online: May 15, 2013
Revised: March 26, 2013
Accepted: April 10, 2013
Published online: May 15, 2013
Core Tip
Core tip: This review outlines clearly the normal function of the mitogen-activated protein kinases and phosphoinositide-3 kinase cascades, in which the RAS proto-oncogene operates physiologically. It also describes the mutations in these pathways that lead to colorectal cancer (CRC), as well as other mutations outside these cascades affecting RAS function and also leading to CRC. The prognostic value of each mutation is assessed and linked to response rates to available biological treatments. Monoclonal antibodies under development are also briefly discussed.