Biological and Targeted Therapies in the Multidisciplinary Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers represent a diverse group of malignancies that remain a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Their management is increasingly complex, reflecting differences in tumor biology, anatomical location, stage, and molecular profile. In recent years, advances in molecular diagnostics, immunotherapy, and targeted treatment have moved clinical decision-making beyond a purely organ- and stage-based approach toward more individualized, biomarker-guided care. This narrative review summarizes established and emerging biological and targeted therapies used in esophageal, gastric and gastroesophageal junction, colorectal, pancreatic, hepatocellular, and biliary tract cancers. It focuses on immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4; HER2-directed monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates; antiangiogenic and anti-EGFR therapies; and newer strategies involving CLDN18.2, FGFR2b, and tumor-agnostic alterations such as NTRK fusions. The review also considers the predictive biomarkers used to guide treatment selection and the growing integration of systemic therapy with surgery in neoadjuvant, perioperative, adjuvant, and conversion settings. However, clinical efficacy alone does not determine whether new treatments become part of routine practice. Regulatory approval, reimbursement, access to molecular testing, and the availability of specialized multidisciplinary care are equally important. The rapidly evolving treatment landscape for GI cancers therefore requires clinical decisions that account for tumor biology, anatomical resectability, molecular eligibility, expected benefit, treatment-related toxicity, and local access to therapy. Expanding access to comprehensive biomarker testing and effective molecularly guided treatments will be essential to translate progress in precision oncology into more personalized and equitable care for patients with GI cancers.