'Big data' approaches for novel anti-cancer drug discovery

Graeme Benstead-Hume1, Sarah K Wooller1, Frances M G Pearl1

  • 1a Bioinformatics Group, School of Life Sciences , University of Sussex , Brighton , United Kingdom.

Abstract

Insights

Big data analysis is revolutionizing cancer research by identifying key genes and pathways driving tumor growth. This approach accelerates the discovery of novel drug targets for more effective cancer therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Bioinformatics
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Improved cancer therapies remain a critical unmet medical need.
  • Advances in platform technologies and biological 'big data' offer new opportunities for cancer research.
  • Systematic identification of tumorigenesis drivers can lead to novel therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss current approaches utilizing 'big data' for cancer driver identification.
  • To review the use of big data in discovering novel drug targets.
  • To provide an overview of data repositories and tools in cancer drug discovery.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of genomic sequencing data.
  • Pathway data analysis.
  • Multi-platform data integration.
  • Identification of genetic interactions (e.g., synthetic lethality).
  • Cell line data utilization.

Main Results:

  • Big data approaches enable systematic identification of cancer drivers.
  • These methods facilitate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.
  • Various data repositories and tools are available for cancer drug discovery.

Conclusions:

  • Genomic-event-based targeted therapies will shape future cancer treatment protocols.
  • Developing a broad range of targeted drugs is essential for personalized cancer care.
  • Big data analytics are pivotal in advancing precision oncology.

Related Concept Videos

Drug Discovery: Overview01:26

Drug Discovery: Overview

Drug discovery is a multifaceted process involving extensive screening, testing, and optimization of lead compounds to identify potential new drugs for therapeutic use. It combines several approaches, including screening large numbers of natural products, chemical modification of known active molecules, identification of new drug targets, and rational design based on biological mechanisms and drug-receptor structure. These approaches are carried out in both academic research laboratories and...
12.3K
Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

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...
9.0K
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

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...
6.3K
Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets01:29

Pharmacogenomics: Identification of New Drug Targets

Advances in genomics have profoundly influenced drug discovery by increasing both the speed and accuracy of pharmaceutical development. Pharmacogenomics, which examines how genetic variation influences drug response, facilitates the identification of novel therapeutic targets and enables patient stratification for personalized treatment. These strategies contribute to improved drug efficacy, minimized adverse effects, and more efficient clinical trial design.Mapping genetic differences...
53