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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
10:27
Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Clinical trials in a molecular world.
Dawid Schellingerhout1, Juri Gelovani
1M D Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Neuroimaging Clinics of North America
|December 7, 2006
Summary
Molecular imaging offers a solution to inadequate data in cancer treatment decisions. This technology enables noninvasive assessment of molecular targets, improving therapy efficacy and reducing toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Targeted therapies show promise but require precise patient selection.
- Current diagnostic methods often lack sufficient molecular data for optimal treatment decisions.
- Inadequate data leads to suboptimal treatment strategies and potential toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of molecular imaging in clinical trials.
- To discuss the current capabilities and limitations of molecular imaging.
- To envision the future of molecular imaging in personalized medicine.
Main Methods:
- Review of the current status of molecular imaging in clinical trials.
- Discussion of technological advancements enabling molecular target visualization.
- Exploration of how molecular imaging addresses data gaps in treatment planning.
Main Results:
- Molecular imaging allows noninvasive assessment of molecular targets.
- It provides insights into target presence, distribution, heterogeneity, and temporal changes.
- This data is crucial for informed treatment decisions in clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Molecular imaging is essential for advancing targeted cancer therapies.
- It bridges the gap between molecular abnormalities and effective treatment strategies.
- Future applications promise enhanced precision and reduced toxicity in cancer care.
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