What is Targeted Therapy in Chemotherapy for Cancer Treatment?
Understanding Targeted Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide from CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala
In the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, targeted therapy has emerged as a beacon of hope. At CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala, we are committed to providing our patients with the latest and most effective treatments, including targeted therapy. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify targeted therapy, its role in cancer treatment, and how it’s shaping the future of oncology.
What is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy represents a significant shift in the approach to cancer treatment. Unlike traditional chemotherapy which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy uses drugs to precisely target specific genes and proteins that are involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells.
How Does Targeted Therapy Work?
To understand how targeted therapy works, it’s essential to understand the basics of cell function. Cells in our body have specific genes telling them how to make proteins, which are crucial for keeping the cell working. If these genes mutate, the proteins change, leading to uncontrolled cell division, ultimately forming tumors.
Targeted therapies are developed to identify these specific genetic changes in tumours. Researchers focus on finding a ‘target’—a protein that is present in cancer cells but not in healthy cells. Once identified, drugs are developed to attack these targets.
Types of Targeted Therapy
Monoclonal Antibodies: These drugs block a specific target found on the outer surface of cancer cells or in their surrounding environment. They can also carry toxins directly to cancer cells.
Small-molecule Drugs: This type of drug can block the process that helps cancer cells multiply and spread. An example is angiogenesis inhibitors, which prevent the formation of new blood vessels needed by tumors to grow.
Tumor-Agnostic Treatments: These are a newer class of treatments that focus on specific genetic changes, regardless of where the cancer originated in the body.
Examples of Targeted Therapies for Cancer Treatment
Targeted therapies have significantly expanded the realm of cancer treatment, offering hope and improved outcomes for many patients. At CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala, we stay abreast of these developments, ensuring our patients have access to the most advanced treatment options. Here’s an in-depth look at some examples of targeted therapies used in various cancer types:
1.Breast Cancer: Targeting HER2
In 20% to 25% of breast cancer cases, there’s an overexpression of a protein known as HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2). This protein contributes to the aggressive growth of tumor cells. Targeted therapies for HER2-positive breast cancer aim to block this protein, thus inhibiting the cancer cells’ growth. These therapies have transformed the treatment landscape for this subset of breast cancer, offering options that specifically target the tumor’s biology.
2.Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Targeting BCR-ABL
Almost all cases of CML are characterized by the presence of the BCR-ABL gene. This gene mutation leads to the production of the BCR-ABL protein, which causes myeloid cells to behave like cancer cells. Targeted drugs for CML work by blocking the activity of this protein, effectively slowing down or stopping the progression of the disease.
3.Colorectal Cancer: Targeting EGFR and Mor
Many colorectal cancers produce excessive amounts of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein. Drugs targeting EGFR can help slow or stop the growth of these cancers. Other options include angiogenesis inhibitors, which prevent the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow, and tumor-agnostic treatments focusing on specific genetic changes like NTRK fusions.
4.Lung Cancer: A Rapidly Evolving Field
The field of targeted therapy for lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), is rapidly evolving. Several targeted therapies have been approved, including:
EGFR inhibitors: Target mutations in the EGFR gene.
ALK inhibitors: Target ALK genetic alterations.
Drugs targeting ROS1 fusion: Focus on cancers with ROS1 gene changes.
KRAS G12C mutation targeting drugs: Specifically act on cancers with KRAS G12C mutations.
NTRK fusion targeting drugs: Treat cancers with NTRK gene fusion.
BRAF V600E mutation targeting drugs: Target the specific BRAF mutation.
MET exon 14 skipping targeting drugs: Focus on MET gene mutations.
RET fusion targeting drugs: Target cancers with RET gene fusions.
These therapies exemplify the precision of targeted treatment, attacking specific genetic alterations within cancer cells.
The Future of Cancer Treatment
The examples mentioned above highlight just a fraction of the targeted therapies currently available. As research progresses, we expect to see an expansion in the number and types of targeted treatments, offering more personalized and effective options for cancer patients. At CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala, our dedicated team of oncologists and healthcare professionals is committed to providing our patients with access to these groundbreaking therapies, ensuring the best possible outcomes in their cancer journey.
Limitations of Targeted Therapy
While targeted therapy is a promising area in cancer treatment, it may not be suitable for all cancer types or all patients. The effectiveness of targeted therapy depends on the presence of specific genetic changes in the tumour. Additionally, tumours may develop resistance to these drugs over time.
Side Effects of Targeted Therapy
The side effects of targeted therapy can differ significantly from traditional chemotherapy. Patients might experience skin, hair, nail, or eye problems. It’s crucial to discuss potential side effects with the healthcare team to manage them effectively.
Targeted Therapy at CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala
At CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala, we are at the forefront of adopting targeted therapy in cancer treatment. Our team of expert oncologists uses advanced diagnostic tools to identify the specific characteristics of each patient’s cancer, ensuring that the chosen targeted therapy is the most effective for their particular condition.
Personalized Care in Cancer Treatment
Each cancer patient’s journey is unique, and so is their treatment. Personalized care is at the core of our approach. We consider not just the medical aspects but also the emotional and psychological impacts of cancer on our patients.
Navigating Your Cancer Treatment Journey
Choosing the right cancer treatment can be overwhelming. At CBCC Agartala, we guide our patients through every step of their treatment journey, from diagnosis to therapy and aftercare. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, and helping them make informed decisions about their treatment.
How long do patients receive targeted therapy?
The duration of targeted therapy varies based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's response to the treatment.
How long do patients receive targeted therapy?
The duration of targeted therapy varies based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's response to the treatment.
Conclusion
Targeted therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, offering hope to many patients. At CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala, we are proud to be part of this innovative field, providing expert cancer care to the people of Tripura and beyond.
Contact Us
For more information or to discuss your treatment options, please contact us at:
CBCC Cancer Centre, Agartala
ILS Hospital Campus, Capital Complex Extension P.O., New Secretariat, Agartala, Tripura – 799010
Phone: +91 6009785522 | 03812415000
Email: info@cbccusa.in
