Current Challenges in Cancer Treatment.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Immunology

Background:

• Cancer treatment paradigms have been transformed by precision oncology and immuno-oncology.
• Lung cancer is frequently used as an example to illustrate concepts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current concepts in cancer therapy.
• To discuss challenges and future prospects in precision oncology and immuno-oncology.

Main Methods:

• A nonsystematic PubMed search was conducted.
• Relevant research articles, clinical trials, and reviews on precision oncology and immuno-oncology were selected.
• Papers were prioritized based on originality and clinical applicability.

Main Results:

• Targeting oncogene-driven alterations and immuno-oncology represent major advances.
• Challenges include diverse druggable genomic alterations, interpretation of genomic data, tumor heterogeneity, and acquired resistance.
• Immune checkpoint inhibitors benefit only a minority of patients, with a lack of robust predictive markers.

Conclusions:

• Current precision cancer treatments are reductionist and face significant challenges.
• Drug combinations targeting multiple molecular alterations or cancer hallmarks are a promising future strategy.
• Overcoming challenges is crucial for improving patient survival and treatment outcomes.