Seeking alternative biological therapies: the future of targeted molecular treatment

Jochen H Lorch1, Marshall R Posner, Lori J Wirth

  • 1Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney Street, SW430, Boston, MA 02115, USA. Jochen_Lorch@dfci.harvard.edu

Oral Oncology
|November 26, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapies offer significant benefits for squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (SCCHN) patients. Ongoing research explores new drugs and targets to further advance SCCHN treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Head and Neck Cancer Research

Background:

  • Targeted therapies have recently improved treatment outcomes for squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (SCCHN).
  • The increasing number of novel targeted drugs presents both opportunities and challenges in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize recent advancements in targeted therapies for SCCHN.
  • To provide an overview of potential future targets and pathways for SCCHN treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent clinical studies and drug development in SCCHN.
  • Analysis of emerging targeted pathways and molecular targets.

Main Results:

  • Significant clinical benefits observed with current targeted therapies in SCCHN.
  • Identification of several promising pathways and targets for future investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted therapies have substantially expanded treatment options for SCCHN.
  • Further clinical studies are essential to fully realize the potential of new targeted drugs and targets in SCCHN management.

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