Targeted therapy

Definition

Targeted therapy refers to a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, minimizing damage to normal cells. This approach aims to interfere with specific molecules involved in tumor growth and progression, offering a more personalized treatment option compared to traditional methods. It often relies on biomarkers or genetic information about the tumor to select the most effective therapy for individual patients.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Targeted therapy can be more effective and have fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy due to its focus on specific cancer cell characteristics.
2. Common types of targeted therapies include small molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, each designed to target specific pathways or receptors involved in cancer progression.
3. Personalized medicine is a key concept in targeted therapy, as treatments are tailored based on individual genetic profiles and tumor characteristics.
4. Targeted therapy has expanded the range of treatment options for various cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma, improving patient outcomes.
5. Resistance to targeted therapies can develop over time, leading researchers to explore combination therapies and new drug development strategies.

Review Questions

• How does targeted therapy differ from traditional chemotherapy in terms of treatment specificity and side effects?
  • Targeted therapy differs from traditional chemotherapy primarily in its approach to treating cancer. While chemotherapy indiscriminately attacks fast-growing cells, affecting both cancerous and healthy cells, targeted therapy specifically targets unique molecules or pathways involved in tumor growth. This specificity generally leads to fewer side effects and a more effective treatment regimen for patients, as normal cells are spared from damage.
• Discuss the role of biomarkers in the selection of targeted therapies for cancer patients.
  • Biomarkers play a crucial role in selecting targeted therapies by providing vital information about the molecular characteristics of a patient's tumor. These biological indicators help determine which specific targeted drugs may be effective based on the presence of particular mutations or proteins. By analyzing biomarkers, clinicians can tailor treatments to individual patients, leading to better outcomes and a more personalized approach to cancer care.
• Evaluate the challenges faced in the development and application of targeted therapy in clinical settings.
  • The development and application of targeted therapy present several challenges, including the potential for resistance that tumors may develop over time against specific therapies. This resistance can limit the effectiveness of treatment and necessitate ongoing research into new combinations and drug strategies. Additionally, the need for comprehensive genetic testing and biomarker identification can complicate access to these therapies, highlighting disparities in healthcare. Ensuring that patients receive appropriate targeted therapies also involves navigating regulatory hurdles and integrating new treatments into established clinical practices.

Related terms

Biomarkers: Biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that indicate a normal or abnormal process or condition, often used to identify targeted therapy options.

Immunotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer by boosting its natural defenses or by providing components such as man-made immune system proteins.

Chemotherapy: A systemic treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill fast-growing cancer cells but often affects healthy cells, leading to various side effects.