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, while sparing normal cells. This approach is based on understanding the specific genetic mutations or molecular markers present in an individual's tumor, allowing for a more personalized treatment plan. By focusing on the unique characteristics of each patient's cancer, targeted therapy aims to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects compared to traditional therapies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Targeted therapy can block the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with specific molecules involved in tumor growth and progression.
2. This therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatment modalities like chemotherapy or immunotherapy to enhance overall effectiveness.
3. Not all cancers have identifiable targets; hence, the success of targeted therapy depends on the availability of specific biomarkers for individual tumors.
4. Common examples of targeted therapies include tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies that are designed to target specific signaling pathways in cancer cells.
5. The development of targeted therapies has significantly changed the landscape of cancer treatment, leading to improved survival rates for patients with certain types of cancer.

Review Questions

• How does targeted therapy differ from traditional cancer treatments in terms of mechanism and effectiveness?
  • Targeted therapy differs from traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy because it specifically attacks cancer cells based on their unique genetic markers or molecular characteristics, rather than affecting all rapidly dividing cells. This selectivity often leads to better effectiveness against specific cancers while minimizing damage to normal cells, resulting in fewer side effects. As a result, targeted therapies can offer patients a more tailored treatment option that aligns closely with the genetic profile of their tumors.
• Discuss the role of biomarkers in the application of targeted therapy and how they influence treatment decisions.
  • Biomarkers play a critical role in targeted therapy by identifying specific genetic mutations or molecular changes in tumors that can be addressed by particular treatments. They guide oncologists in selecting appropriate targeted therapies for patients, ensuring that treatments are aligned with the tumor's unique profile. This personalized approach not only increases the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes but also helps avoid ineffective therapies that may not work on certain cancer types due to their distinct molecular characteristics.
• Evaluate the impact of targeted therapy on patient outcomes and the future direction of cancer treatment in light of recent advancements.
  • The impact of targeted therapy on patient outcomes has been profound, as it has led to significant improvements in survival rates for many patients with specific types of cancer. These therapies are continuously evolving, driven by advancements in genomics and molecular biology that allow for more precise targeting of cancerous cells. Looking ahead, the integration of targeted therapies with other forms of treatment, like immunotherapy and precision medicine approaches, is likely to further enhance efficacy and provide hope for better outcomes across a wider range of cancers.

Related terms

Biomarkers: Biomarkers are biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that can indicate the presence or progression of disease, often used to guide targeted therapies.

Precision medicine: Precision medicine is an approach to disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle, often overlapping with targeted therapy.

Monoclonal antibodies: Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made molecules engineered to attach to specific targets on cancer cells, used as a form of targeted therapy.