Journal of Translational Research

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +441518081136

Opinion Article - Journal of Translational Research (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3

Targeted therapies: precision medicine for cancer treatment

Suzanne Heijman*

GGNet, Centre for Mental Health, Scelta, Expert Centre for Personality Disorders Apeldoorn, PO Box 2003, 7230 GC, Warnsveld, the Netherlands

*Corresponding Author:
Suzanne Heijman
GGNet, Centre for Mental Health
Scelta, Expert Centre for Personality Disorders Apeldoorn
PO Box 2003, 7230 GC, Warnsveld, the Netherlands
E-mail: s.heijman@ggnet.nl

Received: 24- May -2023, Manuscript No. AATR-23- 103794; Editor assigned: 25- May -2023, PreQC No.AATR-23- 103794 (PQ); Reviewed: 12-Jun-2023, QC No.AATR-23- 103794; Revised: 16-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. AATR-23- 103794 (R); Published: 21- Jun -2023, DOI: 10.3794/aatr-7.3.148

Citation: Heijman S. Targeted therapies: precision medicine for cancer treatment. 2023;7(3):148

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Translational Research

Introduction

Cancer is a complex and diverse disease, affecting millions of lives worldwide. Traditional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, have been instrumental in combating the disease. However, these treatments often come with significant side effects due to their non-specific nature, affecting both healthy and cancerous cells. In recent years, a promising approach called targeted therapies has emerged, revolutionizing cancer treatment by focusing on the unique genetic and molecular characteristics of individual tumors. Targeted therapies are a cornerstone of precision medicine, offering personalized and effective treatments that aim to improve patient outcomes. This article explores the concept of targeted therapies and their role in the fight against cancer [1].

Targeted therapies employ various mechanisms to inhibit or block specific molecules or pathways involved in tumor growth. One common approach is the use of small molecule inhibitors, which are drugs that target specific proteins involved in cancer progression. These inhibitors can bind to the proteins and block their activity, thereby impeding the signals that promote tumor growth. Another strategy is the use of monoclonal antibodies, which are engineered proteins that can recognize and bind to specific antigens present on cancer cells. These antibodies can trigger an immune response against the tumor or interfere with specific signaling pathways essential for cancer cell survival [2].

A key aspect of targeted therapies is the identification of biomarkers that can help predict a patient's response to a specific treatment. Biomarkers are specific genetic mutations, protein expression patterns, or other molecular characteristics that are associated with certain types of cancer. By analyzing a patient's tumor sample or using liquid biopsies, oncologists can determine the presence or absence of these biomarkers. This information is crucial in selecting the most appropriate targeted therapy for an individual patient, maximizing the chances of success while minimizing potential side effects [3].

Targeted therapies have shown remarkable success in the treatment of certain cancers. Examples include drugs targeting specific mutations, such as BRAF inhibitors for melanoma and EGFR inhibitors for lung cancer. These therapies have demonstrated improved response rates and overall survival in patients with specific genetic alterations. However, challenges remain, such as the emergence of resistance to targeted therapies and the identification of new biomarkers for patient stratification. Ongoing research efforts aim to overcome these obstacles and expand the range of cancers that can benefit from targeted treatments [4].

The field of targeted therapies continues to evolve rapidly. Advances in genomics, proteomics, and artificial intelligence have facilitated the discovery of new biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Combination therapies, where multiple targeted agents or a targeted agent with traditional therapies are used in tandem, are also being explored to improve treatment outcomes. Additionally, immunotherapies, which harness the power of the immune system to fight cancer, are being integrated with targeted therapies to enhance their effectiveness [5].

Conclusion

Targeted therapies represent a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment, offering a more personalized and precise approach to tackling the disease. By exploiting the unique characteristics of tumors, these therapies hold the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce side effects, and extend survival. As research and technological advancements continue to unfold, the field of targeted therapies will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of precision medicine, bringing new hope to cancer patients worldwide.

References

  1. Reed JC. Apoptosis-targeted therapies for cancer. Cancer cell. 2003;3(1):17-22.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Mishra S, Tripathy P, Sinha SP. Advancements in the field of quantum dots. Int j adv res technol. 2012;1(3):1-5.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar

  3. Brisolara KB, Gentile B, Puszykowski K, et al.Residuals, sludge, and biosolids: Advancements in the field. Water Environ Res. 2020 ;92(10):1541-51.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Farsad N, Yilmaz HB, Eckford A, et al. A comprehensive survey of recent advancements in molecular communication. IEEE Commun Surv Tutor. 2016;18(3):1887-919.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Du G, Pang H. Recent advancements in Prussian blue analogues: Preparation and application in batteries. Energy Storage Mater. 2021;36:387-408

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App