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Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Theory and practice of clinical pharmacodynamics in oncology drug development
Ralph E Parchment1, James H Doroshow2
1Clinical Pharmacodynamics Program, Applied/Developmental Research Directorate, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD.
Abstract:
The clinical development of molecularly targeted cancer therapies is enhanced by proof of mechanism of action as well as proof of concept, which relate molecular pharmacodynamics to efficacy via changes in cancer cell biology and physiology resulting from drug action on its intended target. Here, we present an introduction to the field of clinical pharmacodynamics, its medical and laboratory aspects, and its practical incorporation into clinical trials. We also describe key success factors that are useful for judging the quality of clinical pharmacodynamic studies, including biopsy quality and suitability, specimen handling, assay fitness-for-purpose, and reagent quality control. This introduction provides not only context for the following articles in this issue, but also an appreciation of the role of well-conducted clinical pharmacodynamic studies in oncology drug development.
Insights
Clinical pharmacodynamics links molecular drug action to cancer treatment effectiveness. This review details its medical, lab, and trial aspects, emphasizing quality control for reliable oncology drug development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Molecularly targeted cancer therapies require proof of mechanism and concept.
- Clinical pharmacodynamics connects drug action on targets to efficacy through cellular changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce clinical pharmacodynamics (PD) in cancer research.
- To outline its medical, laboratory, and clinical trial integration.
- To highlight quality factors for robust PD studies.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical pharmacodynamics principles.
- Discussion of integration into clinical trials.
- Identification of key quality control measures.
Main Results:
- Clinical PD bridges molecular pharmacology and clinical efficacy.
- Essential quality factors include biopsy integrity, specimen handling, assay validation, and reagent control.
- Well-conducted PD studies are crucial for oncology drug development.
Conclusions:
- Clinical pharmacodynamics is vital for advancing targeted cancer therapies.
- Adherence to quality standards ensures reliable assessment of drug effects.
- This field enhances the development of effective oncology treatments.
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