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Updated: Dec 13, 2025
A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Molecular Targets, Pathways, and Therapeutic Implications for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Jun Gong1, Jeremy Chuang2, May Cho3
1Department of Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
Abstract:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents one of the leading causes of cancer mortality worldwide. While significant advances have been made for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in the past few years, the prognosis remains poor and effective biomarkers to guide selection of therapies remain noticeably absent. However, several targeted therapies have been approved in the past few years that have improved the outlook for this disease. In this review, we will highlight the recent therapies approved for the treatment of advanced HCC and discuss promising therapeutic options, targets, and pathways for drug development and consideration for future clinical trials.
Insights
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatments have advanced, yet effective biomarkers are missing. This review covers new therapies for advanced HCC and future drug development directions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global cause of cancer death.
- Despite recent treatment advances for advanced HCC, patient prognosis remains poor.
- A lack of effective biomarkers hinders optimal therapy selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recently approved therapies for advanced HCC.
- To discuss promising therapeutic targets and pathways for future drug development.
- To inform future clinical trial considerations in HCC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent clinical trials and therapeutic approvals for advanced HCC.
- Analysis of emerging drug targets and molecular pathways relevant to HCC.
- Synthesis of current evidence and future directions in HCC therapy.
Main Results:
- Several targeted therapies have been approved, improving outcomes for advanced HCC.
- Ongoing research identifies novel therapeutic targets and pathways.
- Future trials are exploring new drug combinations and personalized medicine approaches.
Conclusions:
- Recent therapeutic approvals offer improved options for advanced HCC.
- Further research into biomarkers and novel targets is crucial.
- Continued investigation into targeted therapies and clinical trials is essential for improving HCC patient survival.
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