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Published on: September 30, 2016
Molecular Pathways of Colorectal Cancer Development: Mechanisms of Action and Evolution of Main Systemic Therapy
Chiara Pierantoni1, Lorenzo Cosentino1,2, Luigi Ricciardiello3,4
1Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
Background:
Colorectal cancer is known as one of the "big killers" in oncology given its burden in terms on morbidity and mortality. Since the second half of the last century, similarly to what happened for other solid tumors, a large series of cytotoxic molecules have been developed and tested to treat this disease.
Summary:
Following new discoveries in terms of colorectal cancer pathogenesis and specific pathways involved such as angiogenesis, a new series of drugs have been developed: targeted therapies.
Key Messages:
In this review, we will briefly describe colorectal cancer molecular biology and its main pathways in order to retrace the main stages of oncological treatment development for colorectal cancer from the first available treatments to novel approaches to the disease.
Insights
Colorectal cancer treatments have evolved from cytotoxic drugs to targeted therapies. This review traces the development of colorectal cancer treatments, highlighting key molecular pathways and novel approaches.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health burden due to high morbidity and mortality.
- Historically, cytotoxic chemotherapy has been the mainstay treatment for solid tumors, including CRC.
- Advances in understanding CRC pathogenesis have paved the way for new therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular biology and key pathways of colorectal cancer.
- To outline the historical development of CRC treatments.
- To discuss novel therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of colorectal cancer treatment evolution.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involved in CRC.
- Discussion of current and emerging therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Early CRC treatments relied on cytotoxic agents with limited efficacy.
- Understanding of CRC molecular pathways, such as angiogenesis, has enabled targeted drug development.
- Targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in CRC treatment.
Conclusions:
- The treatment landscape for colorectal cancer has significantly evolved.
- Targeted therapies, informed by molecular discoveries, offer new hope for patients.
- Continued research into CRC pathogenesis will drive further therapeutic innovation.
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