Perspective on the development of new agents in thoracic cancers.
The development of several targeted agents that play a critical role in the growth and survival of carcinomas has paved the way for a new era in the treatment of patients with thoracic malignancies. The novel antimetabolite pemetrexed has emerged as a key agent in the treatment of advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are one of many promising targeted therapies for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By utilizing agents that specifically target the biochemical and molecular changes underlying cancer, it is possible to envision a future in which combinations of therapies treat cancer on multiple fronts, significantly enhancing tumor responses and improving survival beyond current expectations.
Einhorn
L
L
Indiana University Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5289, USA. leinhorn@iupui.edu
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000068258:Bevacizumab; D002289:Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / Q000188:drug therapy; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D013899:Thoracic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000068258:Bevacizumab; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor