Small-molecule-based targeted therapy in liver cancer.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Liver cancer is a leading global malignancy, often diagnosed at advanced stages.
• Current clinical guidelines recommend small-molecule targeted therapies like sorafenib and lenvatinib as first-line treatments.
• Despite advancements, existing therapies provide limited clinical benefits for many liver cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current and emerging small-molecule targeted therapies for liver cancer.
• To review the discovery, clinical trials, mechanisms, and resistance patterns of these therapies.
• To analyze the current landscape and propose future directions for liver cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of approved, preclinical, and investigational small-molecule targeted therapies.
• Analysis of clinical trial data, molecular mechanisms, and drug resistance.
• Discussion of combination therapies and future research avenues.

Main Results:

• Key small-molecule targeted therapies (sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, cabozantinib) are established first- and second-line treatments.
• Ongoing research investigates novel agents and combination strategies to enhance efficacy.
• Mechanisms of drug resistance are being elucidated, guiding the development of overcoming strategies.

Conclusions:

• Small-molecule targeted therapies represent a critical approach in liver cancer management.
• Addressing drug resistance and exploring novel therapeutic combinations are essential for improving patient outcomes.
• Further research is needed to identify more effective treatments and novel techniques for liver cancer.