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Immunotherapy and targeted therapy in brain metastases: emerging options in precision medicine
Tyler Lazaro1,2, Priscilla K Brastianos1,2
1Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02144, USA.
Abstract:
Brain metastases (BM) continue to represent an unmet clinical need in oncology. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy hold great promise in the treatment of BM. Emerging data are confirming the activity of these agents in patients with BM. Genomic studies have confirmed that clinically actionable mutations are present in BM and they can be used in clinical studies to link targeted therapies with their genetic targets. Furthermore, as molecular signatures associated with sensitivity and resistance to immunotherapies are developed, we will better be able to select BM patients who will most benefit from these therapies. Understanding the genetic and immune evolution within BM should drive the next generation of immunotherapy and target therapy, as well as increase the accuracy of the selection process for these therapies.
Insights
Brain metastases (BM) treatment is improving with immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Genomic insights are key to linking therapies with genetic targets and selecting patients for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Research
- Genomics
Background:
- Brain metastases (BM) present a significant challenge in cancer care.
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapy show promise for treating BM.
- Current treatment strategies for BM require further refinement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emerging role of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in managing brain metastases.
- To highlight the importance of genomic profiling in guiding treatment decisions for BM.
- To discuss the potential of understanding molecular signatures for patient selection.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical data and genomic studies related to brain metastases.
- Analysis of emerging therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy and targeted agents.
- Exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying treatment response and resistance.
Main Results:
- Genomic studies confirm the presence of actionable mutations in BM.
- Emerging data demonstrate the clinical activity of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in BM.
- Molecular signatures are being identified to predict response to these novel therapies.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies can be linked to specific genetic mutations in BM.
- Immunotherapy selection for BM patients can be improved by understanding molecular signatures.
- Further research into the genetic and immune evolution of BM is crucial for advancing treatment.
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