Exploring cellular plasticity and resistance mechanisms in lung cancer: Innovations and emerging therapies

Caiyu Jiang1, Shenglong Xie2, Kegang Jia2

  • 1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China.

Insights

This review covers non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatments, from conventional therapies to targeted drugs like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). It also explores novel immunotherapies, phytochemicals, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) for personalized medicine.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common lung cancer type and a leading cause of cancer mortality.
  • Conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery face limitations due to drug resistance and toxicity.
  • There is a critical need for more effective and accessible NSCLC therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • To highlight advancements in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and personalized medicine approaches.
  • To address challenges in treatment accessibility and propose future research directions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of conventional therapies, targeted treatments (TKIs, ICIs), novel immunotherapies, and phytochemicals.
  • Exploration of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for personalized treatment selection.
  • Analysis of innovative agents like bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

Main Results:

  • Targeted therapies (TKIs, ICIs) show improved outcomes in patients with specific mutations (ROS1, ALK, EGFR).
  • Novel immunotherapies and phytochemicals demonstrate potential in overcoming resistance in advanced NSCLC.
  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) facilitates personalized treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Advancements in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and personalized medicine are transforming NSCLC treatment.
  • Innovative agents and approaches offer new hope for overcoming therapeutic resistance.
  • Addressing socioeconomic barriers is crucial for equitable access to advanced NSCLC therapies.