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Detection of Targetable Alterations in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer using Next-generation Sequencing
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Detection of Targetable Alterations in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer using Next-generation Sequencing

Published on: October 10, 2025

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Review of the current targeted therapies for non-small-cell lung cancer

Kim-Son H Nguyen1, Joel W Neal1, Heather Wakelee1

  • 1Kim-Son H Nguyen, Joel W Neal, Heather Wakelee, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, United States.

World Journal of Clinical Oncology
|October 11, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapies have transformed non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment by targeting oncogenes like EGFR and ALK. Researchers are developing new agents to overcome acquired resistance and expand personalized treatment options for NSCLC patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The last decade has seen significant advancements in targeted therapies for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • These therapies target specific oncogenic drivers, revolutionizing treatment paradigms.
  • Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) are key targets in NSCLC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the efficacy of current oncogene-directed targeted therapies for NSCLC.
  • To discuss the challenge of acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
  • To highlight emerging agents and targets for overcoming resistance and expanding personalized treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trial data and scientific literature.
  • Analysis of efficacy data for EGFR and ALK inhibitors.
  • Exploration of mechanisms of resistance and novel therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Gefitinib, erlotinib, and afatinib show efficacy against EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
  • Crizotinib is effective for ALK-positive NSCLC.
  • New agents like CO-1686, AZD9291, ceritinib, and alectinib show promise in overcoming resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Personalized medicine, driven by molecular target identification, is transforming NSCLC treatment.
  • Ongoing research is crucial for developing strategies to overcome acquired resistance.
  • Emerging therapies targeting other oncogenes (ROS1, HER2, BRAF) will further enhance personalized treatment for NSCLC.
Keywords:
Acquired resistanceAnaplastic lymphoma kinaseEpidermal growth factor receptorLung cancerNon-small cell lung cancerTargeted therapies

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