Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which can affect both cancerous and healthy cells, targeted therapy aims to disrupt specific pathways or mechanisms that are crucial for the growth and survival of cancer cells.

Mechanisms of Action

• Targeting Specific Molecules: Targeted therapies often focus on specific proteins or genes that contribute to cancer cell proliferation.

• Inhibiting Signal Transduction: Many targeted therapies block signals that tell cancer cells to grow and divide.

• Blocking Blood Supply: Some therapies inhibit the formation of blood vessels that supply nutrients to tumors.

Types of Targeted Therapy

• Monoclonal Antibodies: These are lab-created molecules that can bind to specific antigens on cancer cells.

• Small Molecule Inhibitors: These drugs can enter cells and interfere with the function of specific proteins inside the cancer cells.

• Gene Therapy: This involves altering the genetic material within cancer cells to stop their growth.

Benefits of Targeted Therapy

• Less damage to normal cells compared to traditional chemotherapy.

• Potential for personalized treatment based on genetic profiling of the tumor.

• Can be used in combination with other treatments to enhance effectiveness.

Challenges and Limitations

• Not all cancers have identifiable targets.

• Cancer cells can develop resistance to targeted therapies over time.

• Side effects can still occur, although they may differ from those of traditional chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Targeted therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, offering more precise options that can lead to better outcomes for patients. Ongoing research continues to expand the understanding and application of these therapies in oncology.