Hepatocellular carcinoma treatment: a comparative review of emerging growth factor receptor antagonists

Area of Science:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) research
• Targeted cancer therapy
• Biomarker discovery

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global health concern with limited treatment options.
• Sorafenib has been the primary therapy for advanced HCC; regorafenib shows promise in second-line treatment.
• Tumor heterogeneity and multiple molecular drivers complicate targeted therapy efficacy in HCC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review targeted agents, molecular targets, and resistance mechanisms in HCC.
• To discuss the role of biomarker-enriched clinical trials in HCC treatment.
• To explore the potential of liquid biopsy for HCC patient management.

Main Methods:

• Review of published and ongoing studies on targeted agents in HCC.
• Analysis of molecular targets and resistance mechanisms.
• Evaluation of biomarker-driven clinical trial designs and liquid biopsy applications.

Main Results:

• Targeted therapies in HCC are limited by significant molecular heterogeneity.
• Biomarker-enriched clinical trials are underway, targeting specific driver genes.
• Liquid biopsy presents a promising, though unvalidated, alternative for tissue-accessible challenges.

Conclusions:

• The complexity of HCC drivers necessitates personalized treatment strategies.
• Biomarker-guided approaches and novel biopsy techniques are crucial for advancing HCC therapy.
• Further validation of liquid biopsy is essential for its clinical integration in HCC management.