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Molecular-targeted agents combination therapy for cancer: developments and potentials
Feifei Li1, Changqi Zhao, Lili Wang
1Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; Gene Engineering and Biotechnology Beijing Key Laboratory, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
Although chemotherapy has advanced into the era of targeted drugs, the antitumor efficacies of current therapies are limited, most likely because of the high degree of cancer clonal heterogeneity, intratumor genetic heterogeneity and cell signal complexity. As shutdown of a single target does not necessarily eradicate the cancer, the use of combinations of molecular-targeted agents (MATs) has been proposed, and some pioneering research has been conducted to examine the efficacy of this strategy. In this article, the clinical and preclinical studies that are underway in an attempt to improve the anticancer efficacy of chemotherapies through combination strategies are summarized. Studies of combining cytotoxic agents with MATs, coinhibiting two or more targets in a single pathway or coinhibiting parallel or compensatory pathways as well as specific combinations will be introduced, and the antitumor potentials of each combination strategy will be evaluated.
Insights
Combining molecular-targeted agents (MATs) shows promise for improving cancer chemotherapy. This strategy addresses tumor heterogeneity and complexity by targeting multiple pathways, potentially enhancing antitumor efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Background:
- Current cancer chemotherapy faces limitations due to tumor heterogeneity and complex cell signaling.
- Targeting single pathways is often insufficient for complete cancer eradication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize clinical and preclinical studies on combination chemotherapy strategies.
- To evaluate the antitumor potential of various combination approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies combining cytotoxic agents with molecular-targeted agents (MATs).
- Analysis of strategies involving co-inhibition of single, parallel, or compensatory pathways.
- Evaluation of specific combination regimens.
Main Results:
- Combination therapies, including cytotoxic agents with MATs, demonstrate potential for improved anticancer efficacy.
- Targeting multiple pathways or compensatory mechanisms offers a promising strategy.
- Specific combination studies are introduced and their antitumor potentials assessed.
Conclusions:
- Combination strategies represent a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
- Addressing tumor complexity through multi-targeted approaches is crucial for enhancing chemotherapy.
- Further research into specific combinations is warranted to optimize therapeutic outcomes.
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