Targeting ERK1/2 activation and proliferation in human primary schwannoma cells with MEK1/2 inhibitor AZD6244

Deficiency of the tumor suppressor merlin leads to the development of multiple tumors of the nervous system, such as schwannomas, meningiomas, and ependymomas. Due to the benign character of these tumors, classical chemotherapy is ineffective. Current therapies, surgery. and radiosurgery are local and quite invasive, thus new systemic treatments are required. We have previously described the Raf/mitogen-activated kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway activation and its role in schwannoma growth Here, we targeted MEK1/2 known as a convergence point for multiple cascades towards ERK1/2 activation and cell proliferation, using MEK1/2 inhibitor AZD6244 (ARRY-142886; Astra Zeneca). We show that AZD6244 at low concentration completely abolished platelet-derived growth factor-DD-mediated ERK1/2 activation and cell proliferation in human primary schwannoma cells Moreover, this drug was not toxic for either schwannoma or Schwann cells and has been reported to be safe with tolerable side effects Thus, AZD6244 can be considered as a drug candidate for schwannoma treatment. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc All rights reserved