GSK-3β and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Review of Its Role in Disease Mechanisms and Treatment Strategies

Abstract

Introduction

Recent molecular docking studies have identified potential inhibitors targeting GSK-3β, offering promising avenues for therapeutic intervention. These inhibitors could potentially disrupt the oncogenic signaling pathways mediated by GSK-3β, thereby halting or reversing tumor progression. This literature review seeks to deliver a thorough examination of the current knowledge regarding GSK-3β influence on NSCLC.

Methods

The author carried out an extensive literature review utilizing various electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Europe PMC. The search keywords included "GSK-3β," "glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta," "non-small cell lung cancer," "NSCLC," "prognosis," "apoptosis," "cell proliferation," "autophagy," "radiosensitivity," "tumor differentiation," and "molecular docking." The findings from the included studies were integrated into a narrative review, emphasizing GSK-3β role in NSCLC pathogenesis, its potential as a therapeutic target, and its utility as a prognostic biomarker.

Results

GSK-3β is a multifunctional serine/threonine kinase involved in various cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, motility, and survival. Its expression is associated with NSCLC differentiation, with GSK-3β-negative tumors showing better prognosis. Preclinical studies have identified potential GSK-3β inhibitors with favorable docking scores and ADME profiles for NSCLC treatment. However, targeting GSK-3β for NSCLC treatment faces several significant challenges. One major issue is the broad role of GSK-3β in various cellular processes, including metabolism and cell survival, which increases the risk of off-target effects and toxicity.

Conclusions

GSK-3β has emerged as a critical biomarker in NSCLC, exerting a significant impact on disease progression, treatment response, and prognosis.