First-Line Therapy For Advanced Non-Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Fausto Petrelli1, Elena Verri2, Antonio Ghidini3

  • 1Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo ovest, Treviglio (BG), Italy.

JAMA Oncology
|July 3, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Combining immunotherapy and targeted therapy shows promise for non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma (nccRCC). These treatments improve outcomes for metastatic nccRCC patients, supporting their use in clinical guidelines.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Medical Research

Background:

  • Non-clear cell renal cell carcinomas (nccRCCs) are challenging due to heterogeneity and limited clinical trial data.
  • Understanding treatment benefits for nccRCC subtypes is vital for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of first-line immunotherapy combinations and targeted therapy for metastatic nccRCC.
  • To synthesize current evidence on treatment outcomes for nccRCC.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to December 31, 2024.
  • Inclusion of studies on nccRCC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), reporting objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and disease control rate (DCR).
  • Random-effects meta-analysis of 23 studies, with data extraction and quality assessment by independent reviewers.

Main Results:

  • Pooled analysis of 23 studies in nccRCC showed an ORR of 26.6% and DCR of 57.8%.
  • Median PFS was 6.59 months and median OS was 21.11 months.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demonstrated significant efficacy, with combination therapies outperforming monotherapy.

Conclusions:

  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with targeted therapies show promising efficacy in metastatic nccRCC.
  • Findings support integrating these combinations into treatment guidelines for nccRCC.
  • Further research on long-term outcomes, safety, and biomarkers is recommended for personalized nccRCC treatment.

Related Concept Videos

Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
7.8K
Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure01:26

Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure

Preoperative ManagementThe primary goals of preoperative management in kidney transplantation are to optimize the patient’s metabolic state and prepare them for surgery through diet adjustments, necessary dialysis, and tailored medical treatment. This phase also involves comprehensive infection screening and patient education about the surgical procedure and postoperative care to improve outcomes and adherence.Medical ManagementA comprehensive evaluation is required for both the living...
78
Treatment Resistant Cancers02:56

Treatment Resistant Cancers

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. A cancer cell is genetically unstable and hence can mutate faster. They can also modify their microenvironment and escape immune surveillance. The difficulties in treating cancer are further compounded by the emergence of rapid resistance to anticancer drugs. The most common ways to attain resistance in cancer cells include alteration in drug transport and metabolism, modification of drug target, elevated DNA damage response, or...
3.4K
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care01:28

Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...
82
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
5.1K