Combating KRAS inhibitor resistance in colorectal cancer

A collaborative preclinical study from University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine scientists is providing a new understanding of KRAS inhibitor resistance in colorectal cancer, according to an announcement.

The researchers discovered a connection between certain genetic and cell-state changes and KRAS inhibitor resistance in cases of KRAS-mutant colorectal cancer. These could be due to “both genetic and non-genetic factors,” according to the research. Additionally, targeting TBK1 showed promising results in preclinical models.

This discovery could lead to better patient outcomes. The researchers suggest that “targeting early inflammatory responses by adding TBK1 blockade with KRAS inhibition may be a promising combination strategy to overcome treatment resistance.”