The Mediator captures CDK7, an attractive transcriptional target in cancer

Cancer Cell. 2021 Sep 13;39(9):1184-1186. doi: 10.1016/j.ccell.2021.07.021. Epub 2021 Aug 19.

Abstract

Cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) is implicated in regulating the expression of cancer-dependent genes, and multiple CDK7-targeted therapies are currently under clinical investigation. Three recent studies elucidate the structure of human transcription machinery, offering vital mechanistic insights into CDK7 function and a potential pharmacodynamic marker of CDK7 activity in tumors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-Activating Kinase
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases / chemistry
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases / genetics*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / drug effects
  • Gene Regulatory Networks / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Models, Molecular
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Precision Medicine
  • Small Molecule Libraries / pharmacology*
  • Small Molecule Libraries / therapeutic use
  • Transcription, Genetic / drug effects

Substances

  • Small Molecule Libraries
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-Activating Kinase