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On-Target Side Effects of Targeted Therapeutics of Cancer
József Tímár1, Andrea Uhlyarik2
1Departments of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
Abstract:
The concept of precision medicine is based on the identification of hallmarks of cancer to exploit them as drug targets. The basic idea was that in this way the therapeutic modalities will be more effective and the side effects will be less. Since the majority of these novel modalities are not specific for a cancer-related biological process or a cancer-specific (mutant) target protein, it is not a surprise that we had to learn new type of side effects, because these therapeutics also affect physiological or pathological processes. Even more, in cases of some of these novel therapies we were able to discover new molecular mechanisms of physiological and pathological processes. Identification of the on-target side effects of targeted drugs can help to prevent the development of them or better manage the patients when emerge during cancer therapy.
Insights
Precision medicine targets cancer hallmarks for effective therapy. However, novel treatments can cause unexpected side effects by affecting normal processes, necessitating better management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Precision medicine aims to improve cancer therapy effectiveness and reduce side effects by targeting specific cancer hallmarks.
- Novel therapeutic modalities, while targeting cancer-specific pathways, can also impact physiological processes, leading to unforeseen side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the concept of precision medicine and its implications for cancer treatment.
- To understand the origin and nature of side effects associated with targeted cancer therapies.
- To highlight the importance of identifying on-target side effects for improved patient management.
Main Methods:
- Review of precision medicine principles and targeted therapy mechanisms.
- Analysis of the relationship between drug targets and potential off-target effects.
- Examination of newly discovered molecular mechanisms underlying treatment-related side effects.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies, while effective, can elicit side effects due to interactions with non-cancerous biological processes.
- The study of these side effects has revealed novel insights into physiological and pathological mechanisms.
- Identification of on-target side effects is crucial for predicting and managing adverse events.
Conclusions:
- Understanding on-target side effects is essential for optimizing precision medicine strategies.
- Proactive identification and management of side effects can enhance patient outcomes in cancer therapy.
- Further research into the molecular basis of side effects will refine targeted cancer treatments.
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