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Updated: May 28, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancements in Molecular Biomarker Testing for Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: September 8, 2023
Emerging Targeted Therapies in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Syeda A Mina1, Mohamed Shanshal2, Konstantinos Leventakos2
1Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Abstract:
Targeted therapies have changed the treatment landscape of non-small-cell lung cancer and led to improved patient survival across all stages of lung cancer. Newer advances in common and novel oncogenic drivers continue to occur at vigorous speed, making it challenging to stay up to date with the rapidly evolving field. In this article, we review the emerging perspectives in the treatment of actionable targets in lung cancer. We focus on the development of newer KRAS-directed therapies, particularly on non-G12C mutations, pan-RAS inhibitors, and RAS-GTP inhibitors. We also describe the current standard of care for EGFR- and ALK-altered NSCLC and dive into the novel treatments expected to be in the clinic soon. A similar approach is taken toward MET, HER2, RET, ROS1, and FGFR alterations as emerging targets in non-small-cell lung cancer. Finally, we conclude this review with the current body of evidence for targeting TROP-2 as a novel target, potentially of importance in post-targeted therapy scenarios.
Insights
This review covers new KRAS-directed therapies and standard treatments for EGFR- and ALK-altered non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It also explores emerging targets like MET, HER2, RET, ROS1, FGFR, and TROP-2 for improved lung cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Targeted therapies have significantly improved survival in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- Rapid advancements in identifying and targeting oncogenic drivers present challenges in staying current with treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging perspectives in the treatment of actionable targets in lung cancer.
- To provide an update on novel therapeutic strategies for various genetic alterations in NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in targeted therapies for NSCLC.
- Focus on specific oncogenic drivers including KRAS, EGFR, ALK, MET, HER2, RET, ROS1, FGFR, and TROP-2.
Main Results:
- Discussion of newer KRAS-directed therapies, including non-G12C mutations, pan-RAS, and RAS-GTP inhibitors.
- Overview of current standards of care for EGFR- and ALK-altered NSCLC, alongside anticipated novel treatments.
- Exploration of emerging targets such as MET, HER2, RET, ROS1, FGFR, and TROP-2 in NSCLC treatment.
Conclusions:
- The field of targeted therapy for NSCLC is rapidly evolving, offering new hope for patients.
- Targeting novel pathways and resistance mechanisms, like TROP-2, is crucial for future treatment strategies, especially in post-targeted therapy settings.
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