Research Progress on RET Fusion in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Lu Zhao1,2, Qingyun Mei1,2, Yongchao Yu1,2

  • 1Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.

Frontiers in Oncology
|June 16, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Recent advancements offer new treatments for RET fusion Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Targeted therapies like pralsetinib and selpercatinib are now recommended, improving outcomes for this specific patient group.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) treatment has advanced, particularly for driver gene-positive cases.
  • RET fusion, found in 0.7-2% of NSCLC, is linked to younger, never-smoker patients.
  • Recent guidelines recommend targeted therapies for RET fusion NSCLC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review research progress in treating RET fusion NSCLC.
  • To identify current challenges in managing this NSCLC subtype.
  • To propose strategies for improving patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on RET fusion NSCLC treatment.
  • Analysis of treatment guidelines and clinical trial data.
  • Synthesis of findings to address challenges and propose future directions.

Main Results:

  • Significant progress in targeted therapies for RET fusion NSCLC.
  • Pralsetinib and selpercatinib are recommended by 2021 guidelines.
  • Understanding of RET fusion's association with specific patient demographics.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted therapies have transformed RET fusion NSCLC treatment.
  • Addressing current challenges is crucial for further improving patient survival.
  • Future research should focus on optimizing treatment strategies and overcoming resistance mechanisms.