In this episode, Eoin Tabb takes you beyond traditional chemotherapy, exploring the fascinating world of targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Learn how these cutting-edge treatments are revolutionizing cancer care by precisely targeting cancer cells and harnessing the power of the immune system. Discover the different types of targeted therapies and immunotherapies, their mechanisms of action, and their potential to improve patient outcomes.
Key Points:
Targeted Therapies:
Precision medicine approach
Targets specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells
Often fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy
Types of Targeted Therapies:
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs)
Block communication networks within cancer cells
Examples: Imatinib (CML), Erlotinib, Gefitinib (lung cancer)
Monoclonal Antibodies
Harness the immune system, block growth signals, or deliver toxic payloads
Examples: Rituximab (lymphoma), Trastuzumab (breast cancer), Cetuximab (colorectal/head and neck cancers)
Hormonal Therapies
Disrupt hormone supply lines in hormone-dependent cancers
Examples: Tamoxifen (breast cancer), Aromatase inhibitors (breast cancer), Androgen blockers (prostate cancer)
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)
Combine targeting ability of antibodies with potent cell-killing drugs
Examples: Trastuzumab emtansine (breast cancer), Brentuximab vedotin (lymphoma)
Proteasome Inhibitors
Clog the cellular recycling system in cancer cells
Examples: Bortezomib, Carfilzomib, Ixazomib (multiple myeloma/lymphoma)
Immunotherapy:
Empowers the immune system to fight cancer
Types of Immunotherapy:
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Release the brakes on the immune system
Examples: Ipilimumab, Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab, Atezolizumab
Adoptive Cell Transfer (ACT)
Supercharges immune cells to target cancer
Example: CAR-T cell therapy
Bispecific T-cell Engagers (BiTEs)
Bridge immune cells and cancer cells for targeted attack
Example: Blinatumomab
Cancer Vaccines
Teach the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells
Additional Notes:
Targeted therapies require specific biomarkers to be effective.
Immunotherapies are effective in certain cancers but can have unique side effects.
Ongoing research is expanding the use of targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
CPD IIOP Example: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yd3jZv6upddu2V2qP61WdD7xE8joOXHR6ISQ4BNmIGY/edit?usp=sharing
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