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Development and Maintenance of a Preclinical Patient Derived Tumor Xenograft Model for the Investigation of Novel Anti-Cancer Therapies
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Targeted therapy in colorectal cancer: current status and future challenges

A K Koutras1, I Starakis, U Kyriakopoulou

  • 1Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Patras Medical School, Rion 26504, Greece. angkoutr@otenet.gr

Current Medicinal Chemistry
|March 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapies, including anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF agents, have advanced metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment. This review updates clinical studies, resistance mechanisms, biomarkers, and future strategies for these important mCRC therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Medical Research

Background:

  • Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment has seen significant progress.
  • Targeted therapies, specifically anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF agents, are now integral to clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an updated review of clinical studies on anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF agents in mCRC.
  • To discuss mechanisms of action, resistance pathways, and biomarkers.
  • To explore future therapeutic strategies for mCRC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical studies.
  • Analysis of data on mechanisms of action and resistance.
  • Evaluation of biomarker data and future therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) like cetuximab/panitumumab and anti-VEGF mAb bevacizumab are established treatments.
  • Current data on resistance mechanisms and relevant biomarkers are presented.
  • Future therapeutic directions are discussed based on recent findings.

Conclusions:

  • Anti-EGFR and anti-VEGF agents represent key advancements in mCRC therapy.
  • Understanding resistance and biomarkers is crucial for optimizing treatment.
  • Ongoing research and future strategies aim to further improve outcomes for mCRC patients.

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