Targeting the mTOR signaling pathway in neuroendocrine tumors.

ABSTRACT:

Opinion statement

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies characterized by variable but most often indolent biologic behavior. Well-differentiated NETs can be broadly classified as either carcinoid or pancreatic NET. Although they have similar characteristics on routine histologic evaluation, the 2 tumor subtypes have different biology and respond differently to treatment, with most therapeutic agents demonstrating higher response rates in pancreatic NETs compared with carcinoid. Until recently, systemic treatment options for patients with advanced NETs were limited. However, improvements in our understanding of signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis, growth, and spread of NETs have translated into an expansion of treatment options. Aberrant

SUBMITTER: Chan J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4147239 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature