Gleevec

Definition

Gleevec, also known as imatinib, is a targeted therapy medication used primarily to treat certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). It works by specifically inhibiting the activity of the BCR-ABL fusion protein, which is produced by a genetic mutation that drives cancer cell growth. Gleevec exemplifies how advancements in genomics and proteomics have led to the development of personalized medicine strategies in cancer treatment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gleevec was developed by Novartis and approved by the FDA in 2001 as a groundbreaking treatment for CML.
2. The mechanism of Gleevec involves binding to the ATP-binding site of the BCR-ABL protein, inhibiting its function and stopping the proliferation of cancer cells.
3. Clinical trials showed that Gleevec dramatically improved survival rates for patients with CML compared to previous treatments.
4. Resistance to Gleevec can develop in some patients due to mutations in the BCR-ABL gene, leading to the need for alternative therapies.
5. The success of Gleevec has paved the way for further research into targeted therapies for various cancers based on genomic and proteomic insights.

Review Questions

• How does Gleevec specifically target cancer cells, and what role does its mechanism of action play in treating chronic myeloid leukemia?
  • Gleevec specifically targets cancer cells by inhibiting the BCR-ABL fusion protein, which is responsible for driving the uncontrolled growth of cells in chronic myeloid leukemia. By binding to the ATP-binding site of this protein, Gleevec prevents it from functioning, which effectively halts cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in these malignant cells. This targeted approach represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, distinguishing it from traditional chemotherapy that affects both cancerous and healthy cells.
• Discuss the implications of developing resistance to Gleevec in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia and how this impacts future treatment strategies.
  • The development of resistance to Gleevec is a significant challenge in treating chronic myeloid leukemia. Resistance often arises due to mutations in the BCR-ABL gene, leading to changes in the protein structure that reduce Gleevec's effectiveness. This situation necessitates alternative treatment strategies, including second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors or combination therapies. The issue of resistance highlights the need for ongoing genomic analysis in treatment plans, allowing physicians to adapt therapies based on individual patient responses.
• Evaluate how Gleevec exemplifies the principles of personalized medicine within oncology and its influence on future cancer therapies.
  • Gleevec serves as a prime example of personalized medicine in oncology because it targets a specific genetic mutation associated with chronic myeloid leukemia. The drug's success illustrates how understanding the genetic underpinnings of cancer can lead to more effective treatments tailored to individual patient profiles. As research progresses in genomics and proteomics, therapies like Gleevec are likely to inspire new targeted treatments for various cancers, shifting the paradigm towards more individualized approaches that improve patient outcomes and minimize side effects.

Related terms

BCR-ABL Fusion Protein: An abnormal protein produced by the fusion of the BCR gene and ABL gene, commonly associated with chronic myeloid leukemia.

Targeted Therapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, while minimizing damage to normal cells.

Personalized Medicine: A medical model that tailors treatment strategies based on individual patient characteristics, including genetic and molecular profiles.