Targeted versus chrono-targeted chemotherapy for inhaled chemotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer

Paul Zarogoulidis1, Kaid Darwiche2, George Kalamaras3

  • 1Pulmonary Department-Oncology Unit, "G. Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece ; ; Pulmonary Department-Interventional Unit, "Ruhrland" Klinik, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany ;

Insights

Early lung cancer detection improves survival. Inhaled anticancer drug delivery, including novel chrono-targeted approaches, enhances treatment efficacy and safety for better patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pulmonology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Lung cancer long-term survival remains poor, underscoring the need for improved early detection and treatment strategies.
  • Inhaled anticancer therapies offer a localized approach to lung disease treatment, with investigations dating back nearly 30 years.
  • Numerous anticancer drugs and delivery systems have been explored for inhaled administration, alongside optimizing nebulization, formulation, and safety protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the evolution and current status of inhaled anticancer drug administration for lung cancer.
  • To explore advancements in local treatment delivery systems and safety measures for inhaled chemotherapy.
  • To introduce the concept of chrono-targeted therapy, integrating circadian rhythm insights into personalized lung cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of inhaled anticancer agents and administration techniques for lung cancer.
  • Analysis of safety and efficacy data for various chemotherapeutic drugs delivered via inhalation.
  • Investigation into the role of circadian rhythms and actigraphy in optimizing chemotherapy timing.

Main Results:

  • Established safety and efficacy profiles for multiple inhaled anticancer drugs, including cisplatin, paclitaxel, and bevacizumab.
  • Identified key factors for optimizing inhaled therapy, such as nebulizer systems, delivery methods, and inhalation techniques.
  • Highlighted the emerging importance of chronotherapy, leveraging circadian rhythms for personalized lung cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Inhaled anticancer therapy is a viable and evolving treatment modality for lung cancer, with continuous improvements in drug delivery and safety.
  • Personalized lung cancer treatment should encompass not only molecular targeting but also chrono-targeted administration based on circadian rhythms.

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