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Small-Molecule-Targeted Therapies for Gastrointestinal Cancer: Successes and Failures
Swetha Sunkar1, Desam Neeharaika2, Jayshree Nellore3
1Department of Bioinformatics, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600119, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
The genomic era witnessed the deciphering of molecular mechanisms underlying human gastric cancer (GC) that paved the way to specifically target key molecules or proteins involved in disease progression. A multifactorial disease, GC has a host of other factors that influence its initiation and progression such as age, gender, severe exposure to several environmental pressures, and inadequate diet. These aspects lead to changes at the molecular level that reflect at the protein level, thereby contributing to cancer. Targeting such specific proteins, widely referred to as targeted therapy (TT), is actively sought because it promises treatment precision. Several clinical trials are underway with candidate drugs and in combination with other lines of treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, for which results are varied. This review summarizes strategies that are involved in GC treatment, delving deeply into TT approaches (based on small molecules) that have already reached the clinic or are currently in clinical trials.
Insights
Targeted therapy (TT) offers precision treatment for gastric cancer (GC) by focusing on specific molecular targets. This review explores TT strategies, including small molecule drugs, currently in clinical trials for GC.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Gastric cancer (GC) is a multifactorial disease influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
- Genomic research has identified key molecular targets crucial for GC progression.
- Understanding these molecular mechanisms is vital for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and emerging targeted therapy (TT) strategies for gastric cancer.
- To explore small molecule-based TT approaches in clinical trials for GC.
- To summarize the landscape of GC treatment, emphasizing precision medicine.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genomic studies in gastric cancer.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for targeted therapies in GC.
- Synthesis of information on small molecule drugs targeting GC-specific proteins.
Main Results:
- The genomic era has illuminated molecular pathways driving GC.
- Targeted therapy (TT) aims to precisely inhibit key molecules or proteins in GC.
- Various TT candidates are in clinical trials, often in combination with chemotherapy or radiation.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapy (TT) represents a promising approach for precision treatment in gastric cancer (GC).
- Continued research and clinical trials are essential to optimize TT efficacy and patient outcomes.
- Small molecule-based TT strategies are advancing the treatment landscape for GC.
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