Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 29, 2026

A Melanoma Patient-Derived Xenograft Model
Published on: May 20, 2019
Tailoring the Treatment of Melanoma: Implications for Personalized Medicine
Linna Duan1, Eric M Mukherjee2, Deepak Narayan3
1Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
Abstract:
Oncology has been revolutionized by the ability to selectively inhibit the growth of cancerous cells while ostensibly avoiding the disruption of proteins and pathways necessary for normal cellular function. This paradigm has triggered an explosion of targeted therapies for cancer, creating a burgeoning billion-dollar industry of small molecules and monoclonal antibodies [1]. Largely due to these new treatments, spending on cancer pharmaceuticals has surpassed $100 billion worldwide [2]. In particular, the treatment of melanoma, a deadly and fast-spreading form of skin cancer, has been transformed by these new targeted therapies. In this mini-review, we summarize the progress made in the field of personalized treatment of melanoma, with an emphasis on targeted therapies. We then outline future directions for treatment, including novel cell-mediated therapies and new potential targets.
Insights
Targeted therapies have revolutionized oncology, particularly for melanoma treatment. Future directions include novel cell-mediated therapies and identifying new therapeutic targets for personalized cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cancer treatment has shifted towards targeted therapies that selectively inhibit cancer cell growth.
- This approach minimizes disruption to normal cellular functions, leading to improved patient outcomes.
- The development of targeted therapies has spurred significant growth in the pharmaceutical industry, with global spending exceeding $100 billion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress in personalized treatment of melanoma.
- To emphasize the role of targeted therapies in melanoma management.
- To outline future directions in melanoma treatment, including cell-mediated therapies and novel targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of targeted therapies in melanoma treatment.
- Analysis of current advancements in personalized medicine for skin cancer.
- Exploration of emerging therapeutic strategies and potential drug targets.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies have transformed melanoma treatment, offering more effective and less toxic options.
- Significant advancements have been made in understanding melanoma's molecular pathways, enabling personalized treatment strategies.
- The field is rapidly evolving, with ongoing research into new therapeutic modalities.
Conclusions:
- Personalized targeted therapies represent a major breakthrough in oncology, especially for melanoma.
- Future research should focus on novel cell-mediated therapies and the identification of new molecular targets to further enhance melanoma treatment outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
Targeted Cancer Therapies
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Cancer

