Researchers of a recent study examined the expression of trk proteins and NTRK genes in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Positive pan-trk immunohistochemistry was found in a significant number of GIST cases, particularly in the duodenum and small intestine, and all these cases showed strong expression of c-kit and exclusively trkB. An increased number of activated gene promoters was observed in pan-trk/trkB positive GISTs through Cap analysis of gene expression analysis. TrkB expression was common in duodenal GISTs and a large proportion of small intestinal GISTs, and these cases generally had a poor prognosis. The findings suggest a role for trkB overexpression in the tumorigenesis and aggressive clinical outcomes of duodenal origin GISTs.
The study also highlighted the need for better second-line treatments, especially for patients resistant to first-line therapy like imatinib. The PEAK trial, which compares bezuclastinib and sunitinib with sunitinib alone, is particularly notable. The study’s findings on trkB overexpression in duodenal and small intestinal GISTs suggest a potential target for future therapy, especially given the poor prognosis associated with these cases. The study underscores the importance of ongoing research to understand GISTs better and develop effective treatments.
Reference: Sasa K, Son R, Oguchi A, et al. NTRK2 expression in gastrointestinal stromal tumors with a special emphasis on the clinicopathological and prognostic impacts. Sci Rep. 2024;14(1):768. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-51211-7.
