Evolving molecular-based targeted therapy for cancer: an exciting field

Benedito Carneiro1, Katy Hsiao, Janardan Khandekar

  • 1Department of Medicine, Kellogg Cancer Care Center, Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, IL 60201, USA.

Comprehensive Therapy
|January 13, 2006
PubMed

Insights

New molecular biology tools identify cancer targets. This article reviews agents targeting epidermal and vascular endothelial growth factors for cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Drug Development

Background:

  • Advancements in molecular biology have revealed novel therapeutic targets within cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapies offer a promising avenue for cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the scientific rationale for targeting epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
  • To review clinical data supporting the use of EGF and VEGF targeting agents in specific cancer types.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical and clinical studies.
  • Analysis of data from targeted therapy trials.

Main Results:

  • Identification of EGF and VEGF as key targets in various cancers.
  • Demonstration of clinical efficacy for agents targeting these pathways in selected malignancies.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted inhibition of EGF and VEGF pathways is a validated therapeutic strategy in oncology.
  • Further research into patient selection and combination therapies is warranted.

Related Concept Videos

Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Cancer Vaccines01:30

Cancer Vaccines

Cancer treatment vaccines are a rapidly evolving field that offers a promising approach to immunotherapy. Unlike traditional vaccines that prevent diseases, cancer treatment vaccines are designed to treat existing cancers by stimulating the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...