Molecularly targeted therapies for colorectal cancer: Strategies for implementing translational research in clinical

Heinz Zwierzina1, Alberto Bardelli, Fortunato Ciardiello

  • 1Medizinische Universitätsklinik, Anichstrasse 35, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria. Heinz.Zwierzina@i-med.ac.at

Current Opinion in Molecular Therapeutics
|December 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Translational research for advanced colorectal cancer faces challenges. Focusing on promising targets like EGFR and VEGF could improve patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Translational Research
  • Colorectal Cancer

Background:

  • Despite advances in understanding colorectal cancer biology, few preclinical findings benefit patients.
  • Slow progress is attributed to issues like biomarker/therapy co-development, regulatory hurdles, and lack of serial biopsies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review promising translational research in advanced colorectal cancer.
  • To advocate for concentrating efforts on key therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of translational research in colorectal cancer.
  • Analysis of challenges hindering clinical translation.
  • Identification of promising therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

  • Significant preclinical discoveries have not translated into clinical benefits for advanced colorectal cancer.
  • Several factors impede the translation of research findings.

Conclusions:

  • Translational research is crucial for improving patient outcomes in advanced colorectal cancer.
  • Focusing on targets such as EGFR, VEGF, and Fcγ receptor is recommended.

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