What Are Some Key Protein Targets in Cancer Identified Through Structural Biology?
There are several key protein targets in cancer that have been identified through structural biology. One such target is the p53 protein, known as the "guardian of the genome." Mutations in p53 are found in about half of all cancers, and structural studies have helped to understand how these mutations compromise its function. Similarly, kinase enzymes, like BCR-ABL in chronic myeloid leukemia, have been studied extensively to develop inhibitors such as imatinib. Structural biology has also elucidated the mechanisms of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its role in non-small cell lung cancer, aiding in the development of targeted therapies.
