Chemo-signal therapy, an emerging new approach to modify drug resistance in breast cancer
L Pusztai1, F J Esteva, M Cristofanilli
1Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Recent advances in understanding how response or resistance to cytotoxic drugs develops at the cellular level resulted in the development of novel, non-cytotoxic agents that modulate response the chemotherapy. 'Chemo-signal therapy', the combination of chemotherapy with cellular response modifiers, is a very promising new treatment modality that has entered the arena of clinical trials. Clinical experience with the anti-HER-2 antibody, trastuzumab, in breast cancer has demonstrated that manipulation of growth factor signalling can enhance sensitivity to cytotoxic drugs in a clinically meaningful way. Several other agents that were designed to modulate response to chemotherapy are currently in early phases of clinical drug development. It is likely that some of these new molecules will have a major impact on how chemotherapy will be given in the next decade. This paper will review current clinical research with a select group of chemotherapy response modifiers. We will focus on agents that modulate signal transduction, oncogene expression and apoptosis with an emphasis on breast cancer.
Insights
Chemo-signal therapy combines chemotherapy with cellular response modifiers to improve cancer treatment. This approach, focusing on signal transduction, oncogene expression, and apoptosis, shows promise in enhancing chemotherapy effectiveness, particularly in breast cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cellular mechanisms of cytotoxic drug resistance are increasingly understood.
- Novel non-cytotoxic agents are being developed to modulate chemotherapy response.
- Chemo-signal therapy, combining chemotherapy with response modifiers, is a promising new treatment modality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current clinical research on chemotherapy response modifiers.
- To focus on agents modulating signal transduction, oncogene expression, and apoptosis.
- To emphasize the application of these agents in breast cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical research on chemotherapy response modifiers.
- Focus on agents targeting signal transduction pathways.
- Emphasis on agents affecting oncogene expression and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Trastuzumab (anti-HER-2 antibody) demonstrates that manipulating growth factor signaling enhances drug sensitivity.
- Several agents designed to modulate chemotherapy response are in early clinical development.
- These novel agents are expected to significantly impact future chemotherapy regimens.
Conclusions:
- Chemo-signal therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
- Modulating cellular response pathways can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy.
- Further clinical research is warranted to optimize the use of these agents, especially in breast cancer.
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