Targeted therapy

Definition

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs designed to specifically identify and attack cancer cells without harming normal cells. It focuses on the molecular and cellular changes specific to cancer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cancer cells often develop resistance to targeted therapies, requiring combination treatments or new drug development.
2. Targeted therapies can be classified into two main categories: monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors.
3. Common targets for these therapies include proteins like HER2, EGFR, and VEGF involved in tumor growth and survival.
4. Side effects of targeted therapies are generally different from traditional chemotherapy and may include skin rashes, diarrhea, and liver problems.
5. Molecular testing of tumors is often required to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for targeted therapy.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes targeted therapy from traditional chemotherapy?
• What are the two main types of targeted therapies?
• Why is molecular testing important before administering targeted therapy?

Related terms

Monoclonal Antibodies:

Proteins engineered in the lab to bind to specific targets on cancer cells.

Small Molecule Inhibitors: Drugs that block specific enzymes or growth factor receptors involved in cancer cell proliferation.

Biomarkers: Biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that indicate a normal or abnormal process, or a condition or disease.