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Modeling Spontaneous Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma (mRCC) in Mice Following Nephrectomy
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mTOR-blocking agents in advanced renal cancer: an emerging therapeutic option

Constantin A Dasanu1, Bernard A Clark, Doru T Alexandrescu

  • 1Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hematology and Medical Oncology, Gothic Park, 43 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT 06105, USA. c_dasanu@yahoo.com

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|February 25, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors like temsirolimus show significant clinical activity in advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Research is ongoing for new mTOR inhibitors and combination therapies to improve cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a key target for novel therapies in renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
  • Temsirolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, has demonstrated improved survival in advanced kidney cancer compared to IFN-alpha.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review preclinical and clinical data on mTOR inhibitors for RCC treatment.
  • To assess the safety and efficacy of existing and developing mTOR inhibitors.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of English-language studies.
  • Analysis of the role of the mTOR pathway in renal tumorigenesis.
  • Detailed safety and efficacy analysis of rapamycin analogs.

Main Results:

  • Rapamycin derivatives, including temsirolimus and everolimus, exhibit significant clinical activity in advanced RCC.
  • Both parenteral and oral formulations of mTOR inhibitors are effective and under development.
  • Combination therapies with VEGF/VEGFR inhibitors are being investigated.

Conclusions:

  • mTOR inhibitors are a promising therapeutic class for advanced RCC.
  • Further development of mTOR inhibitors, including combination strategies, is warranted to enhance antineoplastic effects.

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