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Published on: January 22, 2013
Sunitinib resistance in renal cell carcinoma
1Centre for Kidney Disease Research, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland at Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia.
Abstract:
Of the many targeted therapies introduced since 2006, sunitinib has carved its way to become the most commonly used first-line therapy for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Despite significant improvements in progression-free survival, 30% of the patients are intrinsically resistant to sunitinib and the remaining 70% who respond initially will eventually become resistant in 6-15 months. While the molecular mechanisms of acquired resistance to sunitinib have been unravelling at a rapid rate, the mechanisms of intrinsic resistance remain elusive. Combination therapy, sunitinib rechallenge and sequential therapy have been investigated as means to overcome resistance to sunitinib. Of these, sequential therapy appears to be the most promising strategy. This mini review summarises our emerging understanding of the molecular mechanisms, and the strategies employed to overcome sunitinib resistance.
Insights
Sunitinib is a common treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC), but resistance is a major challenge. Sequential therapy shows promise for overcoming both intrinsic and acquired sunitinib resistance in RCC patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Sunitinib is a primary first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
- Significant patient populations exhibit intrinsic resistance or develop acquired resistance to sunitinib.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms underlying intrinsic and acquired resistance to sunitinib in metastatic RCC.
- To summarize current and emerging strategies for overcoming sunitinib resistance.
- To highlight sequential therapy as a promising approach.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on sunitinib resistance in metastatic RCC.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms of intrinsic and acquired resistance.
- Evaluation of therapeutic strategies including combination, rechallenge, and sequential therapy.
Main Results:
- Intrinsic resistance mechanisms remain largely unknown, unlike acquired resistance.
- Sequential therapy demonstrates potential as an effective strategy to overcome sunitinib resistance.
- Combination and rechallenge therapies have also been explored.
Conclusions:
- Sunitinib resistance in metastatic RCC necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
- Sequential therapy is a promising approach to manage both intrinsic and acquired resistance.
- Further research into intrinsic resistance mechanisms is warranted.
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