Advances in targeted therapy for gastric cancer based on tumor driver genes

Shiying Wu1,2, Pinglong Xu3,4,5,6, Fei Zhang7,8

  • 1College of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018, China. wushiying@zju.edu.cn.

Insights

Targeted therapies are revolutionizing gastric cancer treatment by focusing on specific driver genes like HER2 and VEGFR2. These advancements offer new hope for patients with advanced or HER2-positive gastric cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Gastric cancer pathogenesis is increasingly understood, leading to the identification of key driver genes.
  • Targeted therapies are now clinically applied, improving treatment outcomes for gastric cancer patients.

Approach:

  • This review examines targeted therapies for gastric cancer, focusing on drugs targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2), and MET.
  • Trastuzumab, targeting HER2, is a standard for HER2-positive gastric cancer.
  • Ramucirumab, targeting VEGFR2, is used in second-line therapy for advanced gastric cancer.

Key Points:

  • Bemarituzumab targets FGFR2, and zolbetuximab targets CLDN18.2, showing significant improvements in progression-free and overall survival in clinical trials.
  • Targeting these specific genes offers personalized treatment strategies.
  • The review provides a reference for the clinical application of targeted therapies in gastric cancer.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted therapies based on specific genetic alterations represent a significant advancement in gastric cancer treatment.
  • Further research and clinical application of these targeted agents are crucial for improving patient survival and quality of life.

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