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Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Targeted cancer therapies
Abstract:
With unprecedented understanding of molecular events underlying human cancer in this genomic era, a large number of drugs specifically targeting hypothesized oncogenic drivers to which tumors are potentially addicted to have been developed and continue to be developed. These targeted cancer therapies are being actively tested in clinical trials with mixed successes. This editorial provides an overview on successful targeted cancer drugs on the market and those drugs that are in late clinical development stages. Importantly, the article lays out main challenges in developing molecular targeted therapies and potential path forward to overcome these challenges, as well as opportunities for China in this new era of targeted agents. The editorial serves as an introduction to the Targeted Cancer Therapies series that will review in depth of major pathways and drugs targeting these pathways to be published in the coming issues of the Chinese Journal of Cancer.
Insights
The development of targeted cancer therapies has advanced significantly, offering new treatments for cancer. This review covers successful drugs, challenges in development, and future opportunities, particularly for China.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The genomic era has led to a deeper understanding of cancer's molecular underpinnings.
- Numerous targeted cancer therapies are in development, aiming at specific oncogenic drivers.
- Clinical trials for these targeted agents show varied success rates.
Discussion:
- This editorial reviews currently marketed and late-stage clinical targeted cancer drugs.
- It highlights key challenges encountered in developing molecular targeted therapies.
- Potential strategies to overcome these developmental hurdles are discussed.
Key Insights:
- Successful targeted cancer therapies offer new treatment avenues.
- Overcoming challenges in targeted drug development is crucial for advancing cancer care.
- China has emerging opportunities in the field of targeted cancer agents.
Outlook:
- This editorial introduces a series on targeted cancer therapies, focusing on major pathways and drugs.
- Future publications will provide in-depth reviews of specific targeted agents and their mechanisms.
- The series aims to inform researchers and clinicians about the evolving landscape of targeted cancer treatments.
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