Targeted therapy

Definition

Targeted therapy is a type of medical treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, while sparing normal cells. This approach is based on the understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of cancer, allowing for treatments tailored to the individual characteristics of each patient's disease. By focusing on specific molecular targets associated with cancer, targeted therapies can improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects compared to traditional therapies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Targeted therapy can be more effective than traditional chemotherapy because it focuses on specific pathways involved in cancer cell growth and survival.
2. These therapies can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation for enhanced effectiveness.
3. The development of targeted therapies relies heavily on advancements in genomics and molecular biology, which have improved our understanding of cancer biology.
4. Some targeted therapies aim to block the growth signals that tumors receive, while others may mark cancer cells for destruction by the immune system.
5. Resistance to targeted therapies can occur, making it crucial for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans based on patient response.

Review Questions

• How does targeted therapy differ from traditional chemotherapy in treating cancer?
  • Targeted therapy differs from traditional chemotherapy in its approach to treating cancer by specifically focusing on the molecular and genetic characteristics of cancer cells. While chemotherapy indiscriminately attacks rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy aims to interrupt specific pathways that promote cancer cell growth and survival. This precision can lead to improved outcomes and reduced side effects since normal healthy cells are less affected.
• Discuss the role of biomarkers in the development and application of targeted therapies.
  • Biomarkers play a critical role in the development and application of targeted therapies as they help identify patients who are most likely to benefit from specific treatments. These biological indicators can reveal important information about the genetic makeup of a tumor, allowing healthcare providers to tailor therapy accordingly. By understanding which biomarkers are present, clinicians can select the appropriate targeted therapy that aligns with the individual patient's cancer profile, maximizing effectiveness while minimizing unnecessary side effects.
• Evaluate the implications of resistance to targeted therapies and how this affects future treatment strategies.
  • Resistance to targeted therapies presents significant challenges in cancer treatment, as it limits the effectiveness of these otherwise promising options. This resistance can develop through various mechanisms, including mutations in target genes or alternative signaling pathways that bypass the effects of therapy. Addressing this issue requires continuous research into understanding these resistance mechanisms and developing new therapeutic strategies, including combination therapies that might overcome resistance or novel agents targeting different aspects of tumor biology. This ongoing adaptation is essential for improving patient outcomes in the face of evolving cancer characteristics.

Related terms

Biomarkers:

Biomarkers are biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that indicate a condition or disease, often used to predict response to targeted therapies.

Monoclonal antibodies:

Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made molecules that can mimic the immune system's ability to fight off harmful pathogens by specifically targeting cancer cells.

Precision medicine: Precision medicine is an innovative approach that considers individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle when developing personalized treatment plans.