Combining Molecularly Targeted Agents: Is More Always Better?
Raghav Sundar1, Nicola Valeri1,2, Kevin J Harrington1,2
1Royal Marsden Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
Summary
Combining targeted cancer therapies shows promise but faces challenges. Overcoming toxicities and confirming efficacy are crucial for advancing these combination treatments in clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Targeted cancer therapies aim at specific molecular pathways.
- Concurrent targeting of multiple pathways is a rational antitumor strategy.
- Combination therapies have shown variable success and present unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the strategic rationale for concurrent targeting of signaling pathways.
- To highlight the challenges in developing combination molecularly targeted agents.
- To emphasize the importance of assessing combination efficacy and toxicity for clinical trial progression.
Main Methods:
- Review of current strategies in molecularly targeted therapy combinations.
- Discussion of toxicological and efficacy assessment methodologies.
- Analysis of decision-making processes for advancing combination therapies.
Main Results:
- Concurrent targeting is a rational approach but success is variable.
- Key challenges include managing synergistic toxicities.
- Establishing true combination activity is essential for "go, no-go" decisions.
Conclusions:
- Combination molecularly targeted agents require careful evaluation.
- Overcoming toxicity and demonstrating efficacy are critical hurdles.
- Rigorous assessment is necessary before advancing to later-phase clinical trials.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
9.1K
The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
9.1K
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
1.7K
1.7K
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
6.3K
Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
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...
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...
6.3K
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
2.1K
Immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts or manipulates the immune system to fight diseases, including cancer. For instance, by stimulating an immune response through vaccinations against viruses that cause cancers, like hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus, these diseases can be prevented. Nonetheless, some cancer cells can avoid the immune system due to their rapid mutation and division. The immune response to many cancers involves three phases: elimination, equilibrium, and escape.
2.1K
02:49Cancer Therapies
10.5K
Cancer therapies are various modes of treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy that are administered to cancer patients.
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
10.5K
01:24Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
70
Site-targeted drug delivery systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and treatment costs. Unlike conventional methods, these systems ensure precise drug delivery, improving bioavailability and reducing side effects. Targeted drug delivery is classified into three levels. First-order targeting directs drugs to the capillary beds of specific organs or tissues. Second-order targets specific cell types, such as tumor cells, using receptor-mediated interactions.
70