Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 21, 2025

Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
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Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing

Published on: July 5, 2019

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NTRK fusions in colorectal cancer: clinical meaning and future perspective

Margherita Ratti1, Giulia Grizzi1, Rodolfo Passalacqua1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale of Cremona, Cremona, Italy.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|September 7, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Targeting Neurotrophic Tropomyosin Receptor Kinases (NTRK) fusions offers a promising avenue for improving outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Current TRK inhibitors show efficacy, with new agents addressing resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has a poor prognosis despite current treatments.
  • Neurotrophic Tropomyosin Receptor Kinases (NTRK) gene fusions are rare but actionable targets in mCRC.
  • TRK inhibitors demonstrate efficacy in patients with NTRK fusions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on NTRK fusions in mCRC.
  • To focus on molecular characteristics, clinical features, and prognostic implications.
  • To explore novel therapeutic strategies for NTRK-fusion-positive mCRC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on NTRK fusions in mCRC.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data for TRK inhibitors.
  • Discussion of emerging second-generation TRK inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • First-generation TRK inhibitors (larotrectinib, entrectinib) show efficacy and safety in mCRC patients with NTRK fusions.
  • Second-generation TRK inhibitors are being developed to overcome acquired resistance.
  • NTRK fusions represent a targetable biomarker for improved mCRC outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • NTRK fusions are a critical area for targeted therapy in mCRC.
  • Identifying molecular biomarkers is crucial for advancing mCRC treatment.
  • New therapeutic targets and drug combinations hold potential for significant clinical impact.
Keywords:
Colorectal cancerNTRKentrectiniblarotrectinibmolecular targettyrosine kinase inhibitors

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