ROS1 is a receptor tyrosine kinase belonging to the insulin receptor family. It activates several downstream signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt and MAPK, involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. ROS1 is primarily expressed in the nervous system, reproductive system, and lungs. The specificity of gene expression and functional mutations are associated with the development of various cancers, especially non-small cell lung cancer. Mutations or overexpression of ROS1 can serve as therapeutic targets, with inhibitors developed to treat cancer.