Energizing the search to target LKB1-mutant tumors.

SUMMARY: LKB1 is the third most frequently mutated gene in non-small cell lung cancer and serves as a master regulator of cell metabolism and polarity across a variety of model organisms. Recent studies are beginning to identify therapeutics that exploit defects associated with LKB1 loss. The work presented here by Liu and colleagues shows that deoxythymidylate kinase is a new potential target in LKB1-deficient tumors and highlights the possibility of a new therapeutic option for this subset of patients with cancer. ©2013 AACR.