Discoidin Domain Receptor 2: A New Target in Cancer

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Discoidin domain receptor is a new and unique type of receptor tyrosine kinases, which binds to collagen, the main compose of an extracellular matrix. DDR1 was identified to mediate cell aggregation, and dysregulation of DDR2 has also been shown to be involved in tumor pathogenesis, although its role in cancer development and progression remains controversial. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> Abnormal expression and mutations of DDR2 have been reported in several cancer types and its participation in different aspects of tumor progression, including proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and chemotherapy resistance. Moreover, novel DDR2 inhibitors have been designed and indicate a therapeutic effect for the cancer treatment. <b><i>Key Messages:</i></b> In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of DDR2 in cancer promotion and the potential therapeutic value of targeting DDR2.