Targeting the Interplay of Proteins through PROTACs for Management Cancer and Associated Disorders

Abstract

Abstract: Cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Traditional small-molecule inhibitors often face limitations in selectively targeting diseaseassociated proteins, leading to side effects and incomplete therapeutic responses. Proteolysistargeting chimeras (PROTACs) turned out to be a promising approach to address these challenges. Unlike traditional inhibitors, PROTACs leverage the cellular ubiquitin-proteasome system to selectively degrade disease-associated proteins. In this review, we addressed PROTACs: Targeted approach for cancer management, key findings, limitations, and future perspectives. For this, the authors have critically reviewed literature obtained from prime sources comprising Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, and Publons. From the selected papers' reference section, a number of pertinent articles were retrieved. Preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and potential of PROTACs in cancer management. Additionally, the potential of PROTACs in overcoming therapy resistance, tackling tumor heterogeneity, and engaging multiple pathways is explored. As research advances, addressing challenges and refining PROTAC technology will pave the way for their integration into the next generation of cancer therapeutics, marking a transformative era in precision medicine.