An updated patent review of rearranged during transfection (RET) kinase inhibitors (2022-present).

Introduction: Rearranged during transfection (RET) is a receptor tyrosine kinase essential for cell signaling processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and migration. RET alterations, including point mutations and gene fusions, contribute to oncogenesis. Recent advances in precision oncology have led to the development of selective RET inhibitors with improved safety and efficacy profiles.

Areas covered: This review discusses recent innovations in RET inhibitor development, with a focus on small-molecule patents published from 2022 to 2024. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using SciFinder and PatentScope with the keywords 'RET' and 'RET inhibitor.' The review summarizes the structural classes, target profiles, and potential advantages of newly patented compounds, particularly those designed to overcome known resistance mechanisms.

Expert opinion: While selective RET inhibitors such as selpercatinib have shown clinical success and expanded indications, their use is limited by adverse events and emerging resistance mechanisms. Next-generation RET inhibitors that address these limitations represent a critical frontier in drug development.