Targeting KRAS Diversity: Covalent Modulation of G12X and Beyond in Cancer Therapy
Tonia Kirschner, Matthias Müller, Daniel Rauh
Abstract
The GTPase KRAS acts as a switch in cellular signaling, transitioning between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states. In about 20% of human cancers, oncogenic RAS mutations disrupt this balance, favoring the active form and promoting proliferative signaling, thus rendering KRAS an appealing target for precision medicine in oncology. In 2013, Shokat and co-workers achieved a groundbreaking feat by covalently targeting a previously undiscovered allosteric pocket (switch II pocket (SWIIP)) of KRAS G12C . This breakthrough led to the development and approval of sotorasib (AMG510) and adagrasib (MRTX849), revolutionizing the treatment of KRAS G12C -dependent lung cancer. Recent achievements in targeting various KRAS G12X mutants, using SWIIP as a key binding pocket, are discussed. Insights from successful KRAS G12C targeting informed the design of molecules addressing other mutations, often in a covalent manner. These findings offer promise for innovative approaches in addressing commonly occurring KRAS mutations such as G12D, G12V, G12A, G12S, and G12R in various cancers.