What is the primary function of tyrosine kinase in cancer treatment?

The primary function of tyrosine kinase in cancer treatment is to regulate cell growth and division. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that phosphorylate tyrosine residues on proteins, which plays a crucial role in signaling pathways that control cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In many cancers, tyrosine kinases are often found to be overactive or mutated, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and division.

Targeting these enzymes with specific inhibitors can disrupt the aberrant signaling pathways associated with cancer, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and potentially leading to cancer cell death. By regulating these pathways, tyrosine kinase inhibitors can effectively serve as treatments for certain types of cancer by restoring normal control over cell proliferation and promoting a more regulated cell cycle, ultimately reducing the cancer burden.