Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 16, 2026
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Translational Research in Cutaneous Melanoma: New Therapeutic Perspectives
Antonio Marra1, Cristina R Ferrone2, Celeste Fusciello3
1Department of Medical Oncology, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
Abstract:
Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer characterized by poor prognosis and high mortality. The development of targeted agents based on the discovery of driver mutations as well as the implementation of checkpoint inhibitor-based immunotherapy represents a major breakthrough in the treatment of metastatic melanoma. However, in both cases the development of drug resistance and immune escape mechanisms as well as the lack of predictive biomarkers limits their extraordinary clinical efficacy. In this article, we summarize the available therapeutic options for patients with metastatic melanoma, outline the mechanisms implicated in the resistance to both targeted agents and immunotherapy, discuss potential predictive biomarkers and outline future therapeutic approaches under investigation.
Insights
Metastatic melanoma treatment has advanced with targeted therapies and immunotherapies, but drug resistance and lack of biomarkers limit efficacy. Future approaches aim to overcome these challenges for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Metastatic melanoma presents a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature, high mortality, and poor prognosis.
- Recent therapeutic breakthroughs include targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors, offering new hope for patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current therapeutic options for metastatic melanoma.
- To outline mechanisms of resistance to targeted agents and immunotherapy.
- To discuss predictive biomarkers and future therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of targeted therapies and immunotherapies for metastatic melanoma.
- Analysis of mechanisms driving resistance and immune escape.
- Identification and discussion of potential predictive biomarkers.
- Exploration of emerging therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Targeted agents and immunotherapies have improved outcomes but face limitations.
- Drug resistance and immune escape are key challenges.
- Predictive biomarkers are crucial for optimizing treatment selection.
- Several novel therapeutic strategies are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Despite advances, resistance mechanisms and lack of predictive biomarkers hinder optimal metastatic melanoma treatment.
- Further research into resistance pathways and biomarker discovery is essential.
- Future therapeutic strategies hold promise for overcoming current limitations and improving patient survival.
Related Concept Videos
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
02:49Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy