| Abstract: |
The ALK F1174L mutation is associated with intrinsic and acquired resistance to crizotinib and cosegregates with MYCN in neuroblastoma. In this study, we generated a mouse model overexpressing ALK F1174L in the neural crest. Compared to ALK F1174L and MYCN alone, co-expression of these two oncogenes led to the development of neuroblastomas with earlier onset, higher penetrance, and enhanced lethality. ALK F1174L/MYCN tumors exhibited increased MYCN dosage due to ALK F1174L-induced activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK pathways, coupled with suppression of MYCN pro-apoptotic effects. Combined treatment with the ATP-competitive mTOR inhibitor Torin2 overcame the resistance of ALK F1174L/MYCN tumors to crizotinib. Our findings demonstrate a pathogenic role for ALK F1174L in neuroblastomas overexpressing MYCN and suggest a strategy for improving targeted therapy for ALK-positive neuroblastoma. © 2012 Elsevier Inc.. |
