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Novel investigational drugs for gastric cancer

Loredana Vecchione1, Michele Orditura, Fortunato Ciardiello

  • 1Second University of Naples, School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology 'F. Magrassi & A. Lanzara', Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Surgery, c/o II Policlinico Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|May 27, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Investigational agents like bevacizumab and cetuximab show promise in improving chemotherapy efficacy for advanced gastric cancer. Further research is ongoing for other targeted therapies, as no standard treatment currently exists.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Gastric cancer remains a significant global health burden, causing numerous deaths worldwide.
  • While cytotoxic agents and combination regimens improve patient outcomes, a standard therapy for advanced gastric cancer is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the efficacy of novel investigational agents in treating advanced gastric cancer.
  • To assess targeted therapies against key molecular pathways implicated in gastric cancer progression.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic analysis of Phase I, II, and III clinical trials.
  • Evaluation of targeted drugs including those against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), c-erbB2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR).

Main Results:

  • Phase II trial data suggest enhanced chemotherapy efficacy when combined with bevacizumab and cetuximab.
  • Trastuzumab trials are ongoing; marimastat, despite showing activity, has not progressed in clinical development.

Conclusions:

  • Combination chemotherapy with bevacizumab and cetuximab demonstrates potential for improved outcomes in advanced gastric cancer.
  • Ongoing trials for agents like trastuzumab are crucial for establishing new treatment standards.

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