Emerging targeted combinations in the management of breast cancer
Rebecca J Lee1, Anne C Armstrong1, Andrew M Wardley1
1Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, UK.
Abstract:
The number of targeted treatments has risen exponentially over the last few years and is an important concept in the fight against cancer. This review will concentrate on some of the main treatments targeting aberrant pathways which have been tested mainly in the Phase I/II setting. These include human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 inhibitors, drug-antibody conjugates, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, reticular activating system, mammalian target of rapamycin and multi-kinase inhibitors. Further knowledge of these pathways and the predictors of response to them will enable personalized medicine to become a reality.
Insights
Targeted cancer treatments are rapidly advancing, focusing on aberrant pathways. This review covers key therapies like HER2 inhibitors and multi-kinase inhibitors, crucial for personalized medicine.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The landscape of cancer treatment is rapidly evolving with a significant increase in targeted therapies.
- Targeted treatments aim to inhibit specific molecular pathways crucial for cancer cell growth and survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key targeted cancer therapies evaluated in Phase I/II clinical trials.
- To highlight the importance of understanding aberrant pathways and response predictors for advancing personalized medicine.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of targeted cancer treatments.
- Focus on therapies targeting specific molecular pathways such as HER2, EGFR, VEGF, mTOR, and multi-kinase pathways.
- Analysis of treatments tested primarily in Phase I/II clinical settings.
Main Results:
- Significant advancements in targeted therapies including HER2 inhibitors, drug-antibody conjugates, EGFR inhibitors, VEGF inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, and multi-kinase inhibitors.
- These targeted agents are primarily investigated in early-phase clinical trials (Phase I/II).
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies represent a critical frontier in cancer treatment.
- Further research into pathway biology and response prediction is essential for realizing the full potential of personalized cancer medicine.
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