Table 1 Representative agents of TAM-targeted therapy

BGB324

Small molecule inhibitor targeting Axl

Motivate tumor cell apoptosis, suppress GBM proliferation, migration, invasion and survival

[122, 145]

BMS-777607

Increase intratumoral apoptosis, impair neovascularization, proliferation and invasion

[28, 146]

N-butylidenephthalide (BP)

A novel small molecule targeting Axl

Increase gliadel wafer local drug concentration and extend its diffusion distance. Downregulate the expression of Axl and reduce the migratory and invasive capabilities of GBM cells

[137]

TP‐0903

Anti‐Axl antibodies

Intensify sensitivity to TMZ and significantly reverse TMZ resistance in GBM. Promote the proportion of apoptosis and enhance the cytotoxicity of TMZ, thereby dramatically decreasing tumor growth

[144]

AXL-DN

A dominant-negative mutant receptor against Axl

Suppress diffuse-invasive GBM growth and prolong survival

[138]

UNC2025

Orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of Mer

Reduce clonal expansion, colony-forming potential, and neurosphere diameter in GBM cells. Possess strong penetration of brain

[136, 140]

Small interfering RNA

Nucleotide aptamer binding to Mer

Cause morphological change of GBM cells, decrease GBM migration and resistance to chemotherapy

[142]

Small interfering RNA

Inducible shRNA-mediated knockdown of Mer and Axl

Increase apoptosis and autophagy, decrease nonadherent colony formation, enhance chemosensitivity

[115]

UNC1062

Pyrazolopyrimidine sulfonamides, small molecule inhibitor against Mer

Inhibit Mer phosphorylation and colony formation, activate anti-tumor immunity

[153]

Foretinib

Multi kinase inhibitor, primarily targeted at c-Met and VEGFR2/KDR; meanwhile, inhibition of Mer and, to a lesser extent, Axl and Tyro3

Inhibit the activation of TAM family receptors and the oncogenic signaling pathways. Decrease cellular survival, migration and invasion of glioma cells

[139]