Integrative Modeling of Signaling Network Dynamics Identifies Cell Type-selective Therapeutic Strategies for FGFR4-driven Cancers

Oncogenic FGFR4 signaling represents a potential therapeutic target in various cancer types, including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, resistance to FGFR4 single-agent therapy remains a major challenge, emphasizing the need for effective combinatorial treatments. Our study sought to develop a comprehensive computational model of FGFR4 signaling and provide network-level insights into resistance mechanisms driven by signaling dynamics. An integrated approach, combining computational network modeling with experimental validation, uncovered potent AKT reactivation following FGFR4 targeting in TNBC cells. Analyzing the effects of co-targeting specific network nodes by systematically simulating the model predicted synergy of co-targeting FGFR4 and AKT or specific ErbB kinases, which was subsequently confirmed through experimental validation; however, co-targeting FGFR4 and PI3K was not synergistic. Protein expression data from hundreds of cancer cell lines was incorporated to adapt the model to diverse cellular contexts. This revealed that while AKT rebound was common, it was not a general phenomenon. For example, ERK reactivation occurred in certain cell types, including an FGFR4-driven HCC cell line, where there is a synergistic effect of co-targeting FGFR4 and MEK but not AKT. In summary, this study offers key insights into drug-induced network remodeling and the role of protein expression heterogeneity in targeted therapy responses. These findings underscore the utility of computational network modeling for designing cell type-selective combination therapies and enhancing precision cancer treatment.