Related Experiment Videos
Anticancer drug development at the US National Cancer Institute
1Department of Medicine/Oncology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MSC 7884, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA. takimoto@uthscsa.edu
Abstract:
Anticancer drug discovery and development is a rapidly evolving field. Recent advances in molecular oncology and the effort to completely sequence the human genome has led to an explosion in our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the transformation and growth of malignant cells. This in turn has led to major changes in our approach to traditional drug discovery and development. A dynamic example of how genomics is affecting cancer developmental therapeutics is provided by the ongoing changes being implemented in the anticancer drug development program run by the US National Cancer Institute (NCI). This review summarizes the history of drug screening and development efforts at the NCI over the past five decades from its inception up to its current state emphasizing molecularly targeted therapies. These changes have not only had an impact on drug discovery, but they are also providing new paradigms for the design and conduct of preclinical and early clinical trials.
Insights
Anticancer drug discovery is evolving due to genomic advances. The US National Cancer Institute (NCI) now emphasizes molecularly targeted therapies, changing drug development and clinical trial designs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The field of anticancer drug discovery is rapidly advancing.
- Human genome sequencing has significantly improved understanding of cancer cell growth and transformation.
- This has prompted major shifts in traditional drug discovery and development approaches.
Observation:
- The US National Cancer Institute (NCI) is dynamically adapting its anticancer drug development program.
- Genomic insights are influencing cancer therapeutics development.
- The NCI's program reflects these evolving strategies.
Findings:
- This review details the NCI's drug screening and development history over five decades.
- Current efforts focus on molecularly targeted therapies.
- The review highlights the transition from traditional methods to genomics-driven approaches.
Implications:
- Advances in anticancer drug discovery are transforming the field.
- New paradigms are emerging for preclinical and early-phase clinical trial design and execution.
- Molecularly targeted therapies represent a significant shift in cancer treatment strategies.