This study used gene expression profiling of multiple myeloma samples to identify genes involved in drug resistance. Expression of NEK2, a chromosomal instability gene that encodes a protein kinase, was correlated with drug resistance (through the activation of efflux pumps), rapid relapse and poor outcome in multiple myeloma and other cancers. RNA-mediated knockdown of NEK2 overcame drug resistance and induced apoptosis in a xenograft mouse model of multiple myeloma, suggesting that NEK2 could act as a marker of drug resistance and poor prognosis as well as a new target for therapy.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH PAPER
Zhou, W. et al. NEK2 induces drug resistance mainly through activation of efflux drug pumps and is associated with poor prognosis in myeloma and other cancers. Cancer Cell 23, 48–62 (2013)
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Harrison, C. A target for drug resistance. Nat Rev Drug Discov 12, 190 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd3966
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd3966