Targeted therapy

Definition

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This approach focuses on specific molecular targets associated with cancer, enabling treatments to be more effective and less harmful compared to traditional methods like chemotherapy or radiation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Targeted therapy works by interrupting the growth and spread of cancer by blocking specific molecules involved in tumor growth, making it more precise than conventional therapies.
2. Not all cancers have identifiable targets, so ongoing research is essential for discovering new therapeutic targets to enhance treatment options.
3. The effectiveness of targeted therapies can depend heavily on genetic mutations within the tumor; some patients may benefit from these treatments while others may not.
4. Targeted therapy can sometimes lead to fewer side effects than traditional treatments because it is designed to affect only cancerous cells, leaving healthy cells mostly intact.
5. Emerging trends in radiochemistry include the combination of targeted therapies with radiation treatments to improve outcomes and reduce the impact of radiation on healthy tissues.

Review Questions

• How does targeted therapy differ from traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy?
  • Targeted therapy differs from traditional treatments such as chemotherapy in that it specifically aims at particular molecules involved in cancer growth rather than indiscriminately killing fast-growing cells. While chemotherapy can affect all rapidly dividing cells, leading to broader side effects, targeted therapy focuses on individual characteristics of cancer cells. This precision can enhance treatment effectiveness and reduce harm to normal cells.
• Discuss the role of biomarkers in guiding targeted therapy treatment plans for cancer patients.
  • Biomarkers play a crucial role in guiding targeted therapy by helping healthcare providers identify specific genetic changes or proteins expressed in tumors. These indicators allow for tailored treatment strategies based on an individual's tumor profile, improving the chances of successful outcomes. For example, if a biomarker indicates a sensitivity to a specific targeted drug, doctors can prescribe that drug for better efficacy.
• Evaluate the future prospects of targeted therapy within the context of advancements in radiochemistry and personalized medicine.
  • The future prospects of targeted therapy are promising, particularly as advancements in radiochemistry and personalized medicine continue to evolve. As researchers discover new molecular targets and improve delivery methods through radiochemical techniques, they can create more effective combinations of therapies. This synergy could enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects, making cancer management more effective and individualized based on each patient's unique biological makeup.

Related terms

Biomarkers: Biomarkers are biological indicators, often at the molecular level, that can be used to identify the presence of cancer and help guide targeted therapy decisions.

Monoclonal Antibodies: Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made molecules designed to target specific proteins on cancer cells, often used in targeted therapies to mark cancer cells for destruction by the immune system.

Precision Medicine: Precision medicine is a broader approach to treatment that tailors medical care to the individual characteristics of each patient, including their genetic makeup and the specific traits of their cancer.