Targeted therapies

Definition

Targeted therapies are a form of cancer treatment that specifically aim at the molecular targets associated with cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which indiscriminately affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapies are designed to interfere with specific pathways or proteins that promote the growth and survival of cancer cells. This precision allows for more effective treatments with potentially fewer side effects, improving outcomes for patients.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Targeted therapies often have better specificity compared to traditional chemotherapy, allowing them to attack cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
2. These therapies can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, to enhance overall efficacy.
3. Many targeted therapies require specific biomarkers to be present in a patient’s tumor, guiding clinicians in selecting appropriate treatment options.
4. Some targeted therapies work by blocking signals that tell cancer cells to grow and divide, while others may prevent blood vessels from supplying nutrients to tumors.
5. Resistance to targeted therapies can develop over time, necessitating ongoing research and development of new treatment strategies.

Review Questions

• How do targeted therapies differ from traditional chemotherapy in their approach to treating cancer?
  • Targeted therapies differ from traditional chemotherapy in that they specifically target molecular abnormalities associated with cancer cells rather than attacking all rapidly dividing cells. This means targeted therapies can reduce damage to healthy cells and minimize side effects compared to chemotherapy. By focusing on unique pathways or proteins that are critical for cancer cell growth, targeted therapies offer a more personalized treatment approach that can improve patient outcomes.
• What role do biomarkers play in the effectiveness of targeted therapies?
  • Biomarkers play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of targeted therapies by helping to identify patients whose tumors express specific molecular targets. The presence of these biomarkers can guide oncologists in selecting the most suitable targeted therapy for an individual patient. This ensures that treatment is aligned with the biological characteristics of the tumor, maximizing the chances of successful outcomes while minimizing unnecessary exposure to ineffective therapies.
• Evaluate the impact of resistance mechanisms on the future development of targeted therapies and cancer treatment strategies.
  • Resistance mechanisms significantly influence the future development of targeted therapies as they can lead to treatment failure and disease progression. Cancer cells can adapt through genetic mutations or by activating alternative pathways, rendering existing targeted treatments less effective. This ongoing challenge drives researchers to explore combination therapies, new drug formulations, and personalized medicine approaches. Understanding resistance mechanisms not only informs future drug design but also enhances clinical strategies aimed at overcoming these obstacles and improving long-term patient outcomes.

Related terms

Biomarkers: Biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that can indicate the presence of cancer or a response to therapy.

Monoclonal Antibodies: Laboratory-made antibodies that can bind to specific targets on cancer cells, marking them for destruction by the immune system.

Kinase Inhibitors: Drugs that block the action of one or more protein kinases, which are involved in the signaling pathways that control cell division and survival.