[Novel targeted drug therapies in breast cancer]

Petri Bono1, Heikki Joensuu

  • 1HYKS, syöpäklinikkaryhmä.

Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja
|July 6, 2010
PubMed

Insights

This review examines targeted therapies for breast cancer, including tamoxifen, trastuzumab, lapatinib, and bevacizumab. It discusses their effectiveness, usage, and future potential in breast cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist, has been a cornerstone in breast cancer treatment for over 30 years.
  • The definition of targeted therapy has evolved, encompassing both established and novel drugs.
  • Several targeted agents, including trastuzumab, lapatinib, and bevacizumab, have been approved for breast cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review treatment outcomes associated with targeted breast cancer drugs.
  • To analyze the current utilization of these targeted therapies.
  • To explore future directions and potential advancements in targeted breast cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical trials and studies on targeted breast cancer therapies.
  • Analysis of treatment results, drug efficacy, and patient outcomes.
  • Discussion of the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of approved targeted agents.

Main Results:

  • Tamoxifen demonstrates long-standing efficacy and tolerability in breast cancer management.
  • Trastuzumab, lapatinib, and bevacizumab represent significant advancements in treating metastatic breast cancer.
  • These targeted drugs offer specific molecular approaches to cancer therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted therapies have revolutionized breast cancer treatment paradigms.
  • Continued research and development are crucial for optimizing existing therapies and discovering new targeted agents.
  • The future of breast cancer treatment lies in personalized medicine and novel targeted drug development.

Related Concept Videos

Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted01:24

Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted

Site-targeted drug delivery systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and treatment costs. Unlike conventional methods, these systems ensure precise drug delivery, improving bioavailability and reducing side effects. Targeted drug delivery is classified into three levels. First-order targeting directs drugs to the capillary beds of specific organs or tissues. Second-order targets specific cell types, such as tumor cells, using receptor-mediated interactions.
Targets for Drug Action: Overview01:26

Targets for Drug Action: Overview

Drugs target macromolecules to modify ongoing cellular processes. Primary drug targets include receptors, ion channels, transporters, and enzymes.
Receptors are either membrane-spanning or intracellular proteins, which upon binding a ligand, get activated and transmit the signal downstream to elicit a response. Drugs bind receptors, either mimicking the action of endogenous ligands or blocking the receptor activity to bring about a modified response. Nearly 35% of approved drugs target the G...
Treatment Resistant Cancers02:56

Treatment Resistant Cancers

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. A cancer cell is genetically unstable and hence can mutate faster. They can also modify their microenvironment and escape immune surveillance. The difficulties in treating cancer are further compounded by the emergence of rapid resistance to anticancer drugs. The most common ways to attain resistance in cancer cells include alteration in drug transport and metabolism, modification of drug target, elevated DNA damage response, or...