Notch antagonists: Potential modulators of cancer and inflammatory diseases

Notch is a key player in various developmental processes during the embryonic stage as well as in regulating tissue homeostasis, cell differentiation, and stem cell maintenance in adult life. Activation of Notch signaling occurs following Notch receptor−ligand interaction and subsequent enzymatic proteolysis by the gamma-secretase complex, resulting in the cytoplasmic release of a Notch intracellular domain, which translocates to the nucleus to initiate the downstream transcrip- tional machinery. Notch activation and its aberrant signaling have been broadly linked to the pathogenesis of cancer and some chronic inflammatory diseases resulting in pathologic fibrotic processes. This review focuses on the molecular basis of Notch- induced signaling and its interaction with other pathways to identify therapeutic targets. We also highlight current efforts to pharmacologically intervene in Notch signaling and discuss promising ongoing experimental and clinical studies.