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Updated: May 9, 2026

Human Neuroendocrine Tumor Cell Lines as a Three-Dimensional Model for the Study of Human Neuroendocrine Tumor Therapy
Published on: August 14, 2012
Neuroendocrine tumors: treatment updates
Simon Khagi1, Muhammad Wasif Saif
1Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine. Boston, MA 02111, USA. skhagi@tuftsmedicalcenter.org
Abstract:
Neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic tract remain a difficult array of neoplasia to treat. Treatment of advanced and metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors has traditionally been difficult with few systemic treatment options. In 2011, two new targeted therapies, everolimus and sunitinib were approved for treatment of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. The approval of these agents led to an enhanced interest in exploring novel agents. This can be evidenced by the fact that this is the first year that ASCO assembled related abstracts under a separate title of neuroendocrine tumor. The annual American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference in 2013 presented four abstracts (#4030, #4031, #4032, #4136) that shed light on new therapeutic options that help target the unique pathways involved in these neuroendocrine malignancies.
Insights
Advanced gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors are challenging to treat. Novel targeted therapies are emerging, showing promise for improved treatment options for neuroendocrine malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Oncology
Background:
- Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) represent a challenging group of neoplasms with limited systemic treatment options for advanced and metastatic disease.
- The landscape of GEP-NET treatment has seen advancements, with the 2011 approval of targeted therapies everolimus and sunitinib for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
- This progress has spurred increased interest in novel therapeutic agents for these malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight new therapeutic options for neuroendocrine tumors presented at the 2013 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference.
- To underscore the growing focus on neuroendocrine tumors within the oncology community, as evidenced by dedicated sessions at ASCO.
- To provide insight into novel agents targeting unique pathways in neuroendocrine malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Review of abstracts presented at the 2013 ASCO conference, specifically those under the new 'neuroendocrine tumor' title.
- Focus on abstracts #4030, #4031, #4032, and #4136, which address new therapeutic strategies.
- Analysis of emerging treatments for advanced and metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
Main Results:
- The 2013 ASCO conference featured four abstracts dedicated to neuroendocrine tumors, indicating heightened research interest.
- These abstracts presented novel therapeutic options targeting specific pathways in neuroendocrine malignancies.
- The findings suggest a shift towards more targeted and potentially effective treatments for GEP-NETs.
Conclusions:
- The development and approval of targeted therapies like everolimus and sunitinib have accelerated research into novel agents for GEP-NETs.
- The dedicated neuroendocrine tumor session at ASCO 2013 signifies a growing recognition of the need for specialized treatment strategies.
- Emerging therapeutic options presented at ASCO 2013 offer new hope for patients with advanced and metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
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