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Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Spontaneous Murine Model of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Published on: February 3, 2023
Molecularly targeted therapies for thyroid cancers
1Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77230-1402, USA. sisherma@mdanderson.org
Objective:
To review the emerging evidence that therapies targeting key oncogenic and signaling kinases can be effective in treatment of advanced thyroid carcinomas.
Methods:
With use of PubMed and Google Scholar, a systematic review was performed of publications and scientific presentations summarizing pertinent clinical trials.
Results:
Studies of numerous inhibitors of BRAF, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and RET kinases indicate that patients with progressive or metastatic thyroid carcinoma can benefit from therapy with these novel agents. Severe toxic effects, however, are associated with these treatments, and caution is recommended in their use.
Conclusion:
Further trials and identification of improved therapeutic targeting should lead to development of more effective treatments of thyroid carcinomas.
Insights
Targeting oncogenic and signaling kinases shows promise for advanced thyroid cancer treatment. While effective, these therapies require caution due to severe toxic effects, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Advanced thyroid carcinomas are often aggressive and difficult to treat with conventional therapies.
- Targeting specific oncogenic and signaling pathways represents a novel therapeutic strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging evidence on the efficacy of kinase-targeted therapies for advanced thyroid carcinomas.
- To assess the benefits and risks associated with these novel treatment approaches.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of clinical trials was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar.
- Publications and scientific presentations on kinase inhibitors were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Inhibitors targeting BRAF, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and RET kinases show potential benefits for patients with progressive or metastatic thyroid carcinoma.
- These novel agents are associated with severe toxic effects, warranting cautious use.
Conclusions:
- Kinase-targeted therapies offer a promising avenue for treating advanced thyroid carcinomas.
- Further clinical trials and improved therapeutic targeting are crucial for developing more effective treatments.
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