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Updated: Mar 17, 2026
A Syngeneic Mouse Model of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma for Quantitative and Longitudinal Assessment of Preclinical Therapies
Published on: April 12, 2017
Contemporary Treatment of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Igor Stukalin1, Nimira Alimohamed1, Daniel Y C Heng1
1Department of Medical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary , Calgary, AB, Canada.
Abstract:
The introduction of targeted therapy has revolutionized the treatment of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). The current standard of care focuses on the inhibition of angiogenesis through the targeting of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Over the past few years, research exploring novel targeted agents has blossomed, leading to the approval of various targeted therapies. Furthermore, results from the CheckMate025 and the METEOR trials have brought about two additional novel options: the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab and the MET/VEGFR/AXL inhibitor cabozantinib, respectively. With the variety of therapeutic agents available for treatment of mRCC, research examining appropriate sequencing and combinations of the drugs is ongoing. This review discusses the role of prognostic criteria, such as those from the International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium (IMDC) criteria. It also covers the current standard of treatment for mRCC with targeted therapy in first-, second-, and third-line setting. Additionally, the novel mechanism of action of nivolumab and cabozantinib, therapeutic sequencing and ongoing clinical trials are discussed.
Insights
Targeted therapies, including VEGFR and mTOR inhibitors, have transformed metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treatment. Newer agents like nivolumab and cabozantinib offer novel options, with ongoing research into optimal sequencing and combinations.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treatment has been revolutionized by targeted therapies.
- Current standards involve inhibiting angiogenesis via vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of prognostic criteria (e.g., IMDC) in mRCC treatment.
- To discuss current standards of care for mRCC targeted therapy across treatment lines.
- To cover novel agents like nivolumab and cabozantinib, their mechanisms, sequencing, and ongoing trials.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical trials and therapeutic approvals for mRCC.
- Discussion of established and emerging targeted agents and immunotherapies.
- Analysis of prognostic factors and treatment sequencing strategies.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes for mRCC patients.
- Nivolumab (PD-1 inhibitor) and cabozantinib (MET/VEGFR/AXL inhibitor) represent significant advancements.
- Research is actively exploring optimal drug sequencing and combinations.
Conclusions:
- The landscape of mRCC treatment is rapidly evolving with new targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
- Prognostic criteria and careful sequencing are crucial for effective patient management.
- Ongoing clinical trials are vital for further optimizing treatment strategies.
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