TAM family proteins and therapy resistance

Abstract The TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases have been identified in HNSCC as novel molecular targets. This chapter summarizes the current literature concerning the relationship of the TAM family with cancer and therapeutic resistance. Through basic science characterization, preclinical modeling, and clinical trial testing, significant associations have been identified correlating TAM expression and signaling with cancer prognosis and resistance to therapy. These discoveries emphasize the need to study TAM family proteins and target these receptors in cancer patients.