FDA-approved kinase inhibitors in PROTAC design, development and synthesis

FDA-approved kinase inhibitors represent a rapidly growing class of targeted therapies with proven clinical success in oncology. However, their occupancy-driven mode of action is often associated with resistance, off-target effects, and incomplete inhibition. Proteolysis-Targeting Chimaeras (PROTACs) offer a compelling alternative by promoting complete degradation of oncogenic kinases, thereby enhancing selectivity and resistance reduction. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the rational design, development, and synthetic approaches for PROTACs incorporating FDA-approved kinase inhibitors. We discuss key aspects influencing degrader efficiency, including kinase selectivity, linker design, E3 ligase recruitment, and synthetic strategies. Additionally, we highlight recent advances, emerging trends, and future directions, such as expanding the repertoire of degradable kinases, optimising linker chemistry, and broadening diversity of E3 ligases. A better understanding of these factors will facilitate the continued evolution of PROTAC technology into effective next-generation therapies for kinase-driven diseases.