Type I inhibitors of tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk): a 2020-2022 patent update

Introduction: Trk inhibitors are significant in the realm of personalized medicine as they target specific genetic alterations, such as NTRK gene fusions, leading to improved treatment outcomes for cancer patients. By tailoring the treatment to the genetic characteristics of the tumor rather than the tumor type, Trk inhibitors offer the potential for more effective and precise therapies, resulting in enhanced response rates and prolonged survival for patients with NTRK fusion-positive cancers.Areas covered: Patents covering type I inhibitors targeting the Trk family are discussed, building upon our prior review series on Trk inhibitors. Relevant patents were identified through the Web of Science database, Google, and Google Patents.Expert opinion: The field of Trk inhibitors has evolved significantly, as reflected in the current patent literature, which emphasizes the selective structural refinement of clinical champions. Efforts now concentrate on enhancing efficacy against on-target resistance mechanisms, with modifications made to improve potency, reduce toxicity, and enhance pharmacokinetics. Combination therapies show potential to address off-target resistance mechanisms and improve treatment outcomes. Challenges remain in accurately diagnosing NTRK gene alterations and integrating screening into routine clinical practice. Trk inhibitors have surpassed their conventional role of inhibition and are now seeing new applications in radiopharmaceutical development and as molecular targeting agents.