Biological advances for new treatment approaches.
OBJECTIVE
To review malignant cell characteristics, which serve as the basis for the development of molecular, targeted cancer therapies. To provide an introduction and overview of new targeted agents, including monoclonal antibodies, enzyme inhibitors, antiangiogenic agents, gene therapy, and vaccines.


METHODS
Published scientific papers, review articles, and book chapters.


CONCLUSIONS
Through new understandings and theories of how cancer cells survive, thrive, and metastasize, researchers have created new targeted therapies for cancer treatment to minimize the harmful systemic effects of traditional therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
As with any new therapeutic modality, scientific rationale and mechanism of action must be appreciated by health care staff to build a solid foundation for patient education and to provide astute management of acute and latent effects.
Gemmill
Robin
R
Departments of Surgical Oncology and Medical Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
Idell
Cindy Smith
CS
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage; D019496:Cancer Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000451:nursing; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D007167:Immunotherapy / Q000451:nursing*; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000193:education; D015398:Signal Transduction
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D019496:Cancer Vaccines; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors