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Published in:

01-03-2010

RANK Ligand: Effects of Inhibition

Authors: Saby George, Andrew Brenner, John Sarantopoulos, Ronald M. Bukowski

Published in: Current Oncology Reports | Issue 2/2010

Abstract

Receptor activator of nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cells (RANK) and its ligand (RANKL) belong to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. RANK mRNA is expressed widely in bone and bone marrow. It has a significant role in stimulating osteoclast differentiation and maturation, and also in preventing apoptosis. Because osteoclast activity is an important aspect of bone resorption in malignancy, targeting these cells is a good rationale for preventing skeletal-related events in malignancies. Preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of denosumab in preventing bone loss in mice and improving bone mineral density. Denosumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody against RANKL, which has been shown to be effective in reducing signaling via RANK and thus osteoclast activity. It has been demonstrated in large, randomized, phase 3 studies to be effective in preventing fractures and bone loss, and improving the bone mineral density in various cancerous and noncancerous settings. This article reviews the latest evidence of RANKL inhibition and its clinical implications.

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Title: RANK Ligand: Effects of Inhibition
Authors: Saby George
Andrew Brenner
John Sarantopoulos
Ronald M. Bukowski
Publication date: 01-03-2010
Publisher: Current Science Inc.
Published in: Current Oncology Reports / Issue 2/2010
Print ISSN: 1523-3790
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6269
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-010-0088-1

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