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Updated: Jan 24, 2026

Detection of Targetable Alterations in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer using Next-generation Sequencing
Published on: October 10, 2025
A Career in Lung Cancer: Pushing Beyond Chemotherapy
Pradnya Dinkar Patil1, Frances Shepherd2, David H Johnson3
11 Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
Abstract:
The landscape of treatments for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has evolved dramatically over the past 3 decades. A better understanding of the disease biology and identification of actionable genetic alterations heralded an era of targeted therapies that has led to unprecedented survival benefits in patients with oncogene-driven NSCLC. More recent breakthroughs in immunotherapy led to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors that have changed the treatment paradigm for patients with advanced NSCLC because of their ability to produce durable responses, resulting in improved survival outcomes. Despite the unparalleled success of these agents, primary and acquired resistance to these therapies pose a formidable challenge. In this article, we provide an overview of the therapeutic advances in the treatment of NSCLC, mechanisms of resistance, and potential strategies to overcome resistance to targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Insights
Recent advances in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatments include targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Overcoming resistance to these vital treatments remains a critical challenge for improving patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment has significantly advanced.
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapies have improved survival for NSCLC patients.
- Resistance to these treatments is a major clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review therapeutic advances in NSCLC treatment.
- To discuss mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
- To explore strategies for overcoming treatment resistance in NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of therapeutic advances in NSCLC.
- Analysis of resistance mechanisms to targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
- Synthesis of potential strategies to overcome resistance.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies offer survival benefits for oncogene-driven NSCLC.
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors provide durable responses and improved survival in advanced NSCLC.
- Primary and acquired resistance limit the efficacy of current therapies.
Conclusions:
- Despite progress, resistance to NSCLC therapies is a significant hurdle.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is key to developing new treatment strategies.
- Overcoming resistance is crucial for further improving outcomes in non-small cell lung cancer.
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