[Breakthroughs in KRAS G12C-mutant advanced colorectal cancer: from mechanisms to clinical practice]

J L Zou1, Z Y Chen1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.

Insights

KRAS G12C inhibitors show promise for metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). Combination therapies are being explored to overcome drug resistance and improve patient survival in KRAS G12C-mutant CRC.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • KRAS mutations drive 35%-49% of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases.
  • KRAS G12C subtype (3%-4% of CRC) is linked to poor treatment outcomes.
  • KRAS G12C inhibitors offer a new therapeutic avenue for metastatic CRC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review KRAS G12C inhibitor development in metastatic CRC.
  • To summarize resistance mechanisms against KRAS G12C inhibitors.
  • To discuss emerging combination strategies for treatment optimization.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of KRAS G12C inhibitor development.
  • Analysis of resistance mechanisms including pathway activation and mutations.
  • Evaluation of current and future combination regimens.

Main Results:

  • KRAS G12C inhibitors, like sotorasib, demonstrate efficacy in metastatic CRC.
  • Drug resistance arises from diverse mechanisms, including feedback signaling and secondary mutations.
  • Combination strategies are crucial for overcoming resistance and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • KRAS G12C inhibitors represent a significant advancement in metastatic CRC treatment.
  • Understanding and overcoming resistance mechanisms are critical for long-term patient benefit.
  • Further research into combination therapies will optimize treatment strategies for KRAS G12C-mutant CRC.

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