TGF-Beta Type I Receptor (Alk5) Kinase Inhibitors in Oncology

The TGF beta type I receptor kinase (ALK5) is an attractive target for intervention in TGF beta signaling due to its druggability as well as its centrality and specificity in the pathway. A number of potent, selective ALK5 inhibitors have been discovered which interact with the ATP-binding site of ALK5. Crystallographic studies of these molecules bound to ALK5 have provided an understanding of potency and selectivity achieved by these inhibitors. ALK5 kinase inhibitors are potently active in models of cancer due to mechanisms of action similar to those for other TGF beta inhibitory agents. Recent insights into the function of TGF beta in human tumors as well as in preclinical models of cancer are helping to identify potential target patient populations and drug combinations for the development of ALK5 kinase inhibitors and other TGF beta targeted therapeutics. Differences in the toxicological effects, pharmacokinetics and clinical side effects of ALK5 kinase inhibitors and other TGF beta-targeted agents provide a useful and differentiated set of TGF beta signaling inhibitory agents to investigate in clinical studies.