ATM inhibitors in cancer radiotherapy: Mechanisms, clinical development, and future directions

Abstract

Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase plays a pivotal role in the cellular response to DNA damage. Under normal conditions, ATM acts as a tumor suppressor by regulating pathways that lead to apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via effectors like p53, p21, CHK1, and CHK2. Paradoxically, in some cancers, ATM promotes tumor cell survival and metastasis, especially when aberrantly activated, linking it to therapy resistance and poor outcomes. Its involvement in both radiotherapy and chemotherapy has made ATM an attractive target for cancer treatment. Inhibitors such as KU-55933, KU-60019, and AZD1390 have shown the potential to sensitize cancer cells to radiotherapy by impairing DNA repair, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy. A key challenge remains the development of ATM inhibitors that can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier for use against brain tumors. Currently, none have gained approval from the FDA or EMA, but six candidates, AZD1390, AZD0156, ZN-B-2262, SYH2051, WSD0628 and M3541 are in clinical trials, often as adjuncts to radiotherapy or in combination with PARP inhibitors. Their safety and effectiveness, however, are still under investigation. This review synthesizes ATM's dual roles and the therapeutic promise of targeting ATM in cancer radiotherapy.