[Update on gastric cancer. New molecular classifications]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Gastric cancer (GC) presents as an aggressive malignancy with high mortality rates, frequently diagnosed at advanced stages.
• Current management relies heavily on the TNM staging system, despite the known heterogeneity of GC.
• Existing classification systems are based on location, endoscopic, or microscopic features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest findings in gastric cancer (GC) epidemiology, screening, and treatment.
• To focus on the impact of molecular alterations and emerging molecular classifications in GC.
• To explore how new molecular insights can enhance current GC staging and identify novel therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• This study is a literature review.
• It synthesizes recent research on gastric cancer (GC).
• The review focuses on molecular alterations and new classification systems.

Main Results:

• Technical advancements have revealed the biological heterogeneity of GC.
• New molecular classifications are emerging, complementing traditional staging.
• Understanding molecular alterations is key to refining GC management.

Conclusions:

• Molecular insights are crucial for advancing gastric cancer (GC) classification.
• New molecular classifications hold potential for personalized treatment strategies.
• Further research into molecular targets may lead to improved patient outcomes for GC.