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Incorporating Targeted Therapy Into Neuro-Oncology Practice
Marjolein Geurts1, Juan B Blaquier2, Maarten Wijnenga3
1Departments of Neurology and Medical Oncology, Brain Tumor Center at Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Summary
Targeted therapies are transforming neuro-oncology by identifying specific cancer drivers. This review outlines strategies to optimize drug selection and development for brain tumors, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Oncology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Targeted therapies are revolutionizing primary central nervous system (CNS) malignancy management.
- Advances in molecular profiling enable precise prognosis and identification of oncogenic drivers.
- Challenges include drug delivery, tumor heterogeneity, and preclinical model limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a framework for optimizing targeted drug selection in neuro-oncology.
- To discuss strategies for enhancing drug development and clinical trial success.
- To review recent advances in targeted therapies for CNS malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of targeted therapies in neuro-oncology.
- Analysis of strategies for drug development and clinical trial design.
- Examination of specific drug classes and oncogenic alterations.
Main Results:
- Highlighting the success of vorasidenib for isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant gliomas (INDIGO study).
- Reviewing the application of MAPK inhibitors (BRAF, PAN-RAF) in pediatric and adult CNS tumors.
- Exploring emerging therapies for FGFR and NTRK alterations.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing drug selection requires addressing challenges in delivery and heterogeneity.
- CNS-specific drug development strategies are crucial for rare oncogenic drivers.
- Advancements in targeted therapies offer new hope for patients with primary CNS malignancies.
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