Perspective on the development of new agents in thoracic cancers

Lung Cancer. Volume 50, Supplement 1 , 2005, Pages S27-S28. Available online 12 November 2005. [Link]

L. Einhorn

Indiana University Cancer Center, 535 Barnhill Drive Room 473, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5289, USA

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Antimetabolite; Lung cancer; Malignant pleural mesothelioma; Non-small-cell lung cancer; Pemetrexed; Thoracic cancer