The importance of the MAP kinase pathway, which includes
the kinases Raf, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2, for the proliferation
and survival of tumor cells recently increased
with the discovery of activating BRAF mutations in
human tumors. Therefore, in addition to a role in controlling
tumors with Ras mutations and activated growth
factor receptors, inhibitors of Raf kinase may harbor
therapeutic potential in tumors carrying a BRAF oncogene.
A variety of agents have been discovered to interfere
with Raf kinase, including antisense oligonucleotides
and small molecules. These inhibitors prevent
the expression of Raf protein, block Ras/Raf interaction,
or obstruct its kinase activity. Raf inhibitors that are currently
undergoing clinical evaluation show promising
signs of anti-cancer efficacy with a very tolerable safety
profile. Clinically most advanced is the Raf inhibitor BAY
43-9006, which recently entered phase III clinical testing.
This review addresses the rationale for targeting Raf kinase
and the current status of various pharmacological
approaches.