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Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Spotlight on landmark oncology trials: the latest evidence and novel trial designs
Helena Earl1, Stefano Molica2, Piotr Rutkowski3
1University of Cambridge Department of Oncology, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, and Hon Consultant in Medical Oncology, Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
Abstract:
The era of precision oncology is marked with prominent successes in the therapy of advanced soft tissue sarcomas, breast cancer, ovarian cancer and haematological neoplasms, among others. Moreover, recent trials of immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and head and neck cancers have significantly influenced the therapeutic landscape by providing promising evidence for immunotherapy efficacy in the adjuvant setting in high-risk locoregional disease. To speed up the introduction of targeted therapy for cancer patients, novel phase II trials are being designed, and may likely form the basis for the 'landmark trials' of the future. A special article collection in BMC Medicine, "Spotlight on landmark oncology trials", features articles from invited experts on recent clinical practice-changing trials.
Insights
Precision oncology and immunotherapy are transforming cancer treatment, with landmark trials guiding new targeted therapies. These advancements offer hope for patients with advanced cancers and high-risk disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Clinical Trials
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Precision oncology has achieved significant success in treating advanced soft tissue sarcomas, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and hematological neoplasms.
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors show efficacy in adjuvant settings for melanoma, non-small cell lung carcinoma, and head and neck cancers.
Discussion:
- Novel Phase II trials are crucial for accelerating the adoption of targeted cancer therapies.
- These trials are designed to potentially become future landmark trials, shaping clinical practice.
Key Insights:
- Recent clinical trials highlight the growing impact of immunotherapy in various cancer types.
- The development of targeted therapies is rapidly evolving the oncological landscape.
Outlook:
- Continued research and design of innovative clinical trials are essential for advancing cancer care.
- A special collection in BMC Medicine focuses on practice-changing oncology trials.
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