Scientists investigate the factors that contribute to the development of cancer, including genetic mutations, environmental exposures (such as tobacco smoke or radiation), lifestyle choices (such as diet and physical activity), and infectious agents (such as certain viruses). Understanding these causes and risk factors helps in developing preventive strategies and public health interventions.
Targeted therapies are designed to specifically interfere with the molecular abnormalities or signalling pathways present in cancer cells. These therapies aim to selectively inhibit the growth and survival of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. They often involve the use of small molecules or monoclonal antibodies that target specific molecules involved in cancer development or progression.
In cancer immunotherapy, targeted therapies are utilized to disrupt immune checkpoints, which are molecules that regulate the immune system and can prevent it from attacking cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as drugs targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), have shown remarkable success in various types of cancer.
Research in targeted therapies focuses on identifying additional immune checkpoints and developing new drugs to modulate their activity. Combination therapies involving multiple immune checkpoint inhibitors or combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, are also being investigated to enhance therapeutic responses. Immuno modulators are substances that modify the immune response, either by boosting it or suppressing it, to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer. They can stimulate immune cells, activate anti-tumor immune responses, or improve immune cell infiltration into tumors.
The advancements in targeted therapies and immunomodulators have significantly improved treatment outcomes for many cancer patients. Ongoing research aims to refine and expand the application of these therapies, identify biomarkers for patient selection, overcome resistance mechanisms, and optimize combination approaches to achieve even greater success in cancer immunotherapy.