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An Oncogenic Hepatocyte-Induced Orthotopic Mouse Model of Hepatocellular Cancer Arising in the Setting of Hepatic Inflammation and Fibrosis
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Beyond sorafenib: novel targeted therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

Andrew X Zhu1

  • 1Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA. azhu@partners.org

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|April 7, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sorafenib is the sole approved drug for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ongoing trials explore new targeted agents and combinations to improve HCC treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Hepatocellular Carcinoma Research
  • Targeted Cancer Therapy

Background:

  • Sorafenib's approval has accelerated the development of novel molecular targeted agents for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
  • Understanding the landscape of targeted therapies is crucial for advancing HCC treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review Phase III sorafenib studies in HCC.
  • To update on ongoing trials combining sorafenib with other agents.
  • To highlight emerging targeted agents and their pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of sorafenib Phase III studies.
  • Analysis of ongoing clinical trials for targeted agents in HCC.
  • Inclusion of data on agents targeting angiogenesis, EGFR, and mTOR.

Main Results:

  • Sorafenib remains the only approved agent for advanced HCC.
  • Numerous clinical trials are evaluating new targeted therapies and combinations.
  • Early trials are investigating agents targeting key hepatocarcinogenesis pathways.

Conclusions:

  • Sorafenib is the first-line therapy for advanced HCC.
  • Further research and clinical trials are essential for developing new targeted agents.
  • Identifying and targeting specific molecular pathways holds promise for future HCC treatments.

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