Progress in Hedgehog signaling pathway and its inhibitors for anti-tumor therapy

Hedgehog signaling pathway is not only related with the development of embryo, formation of organ, and the regeneration and repair of tissues in adults, but also plays an important role in the growth and metastasis of tumor cells. Aberrant activation of this pathway has been found to be involved in the development of cancer. Understanding the mechanism of Hedgehog signaling pathway in various tumors is critical to the development and the use of specific agents targeting this pathway. GDC-0449 is the first small-molecule Smo-inhibitor entering clinical trials, and it shows clinical benefit.This article summarizes the relationship between the Hedgehog signaling pathway and the progression of tumor, and addresses the practical application of this pathway in tumor therapy. DOI:10.3781/j.issn.1000-7431.2011.02.018