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A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
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Molecular targeted therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma: present achievements and future challenges

Anna Giacomin1, Adriana Sergio, Veronica Vanin

  • 1Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Italy.

Digestive Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 23, 2012
PubMed

Insights

New molecular agents targeting hepatocarcinogenesis offer hope for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. This review focuses on sorafenib

Area of Science:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) molecular targeted therapy
  • Hepatocarcinogenesis research
  • Oncology drug development

Background:

  • Advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma historically had limited treatment options.
  • Molecular pathways driving liver cancer (hepatocarcinogenesis) are increasingly understood.
  • Targeted therapies represent a new frontier in HCC treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review emerging molecular agents for advanced HCC.
  • To specifically examine the role and safety of sorafenib.
  • To assess sorafenib's efficacy in patients with compromised liver function.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of molecular agents in HCC development.
  • Focused analysis of sorafenib's clinical data.
  • Evaluation of safety profiles in specific patient subgroups.

Main Results:

  • Several molecular agents targeting hepatocarcinogenesis are in development.
  • Sorafenib demonstrates a defined role and safety profile in advanced HCC.
  • Data on sorafenib in patients with suboptimal liver function is crucial.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular targeted therapies are transforming advanced HCC treatment.
  • Sorafenib is a key agent, with careful consideration for patients with impaired liver function.
  • Further research is needed to optimize treatment strategies for diverse HCC patient populations.

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