Abstract

Recently, intensive laboratory and preclinical studies have identified and validated therapeutic molecular targets in cancer, particularly the receptor tyrosine kinases, the intracellular pathways, and the genetic and epigenetic alterations, resulting in an unprecedented surge of novel, targeted therapies and therapeutic regimens. There are currently over 30 new agents being tested in the treatment of solid tumors as well as hematologic malignancies. Many of these are novel, targeted agents that have demonstrated significant efficacy and prolonged survival. Here, we discuss the current understanding of the mechanisms of action of novel molecular targeted cancer therapies being tested in the preclinical and clinical settings, including agents that act directly on the cell surface receptors, intracellular signaling pathways, and cell maintenance processes.

Keywords: Small molecule inhibitor, monoclonal antibody, antisense oligonucleotide, ell surface receptors, receptor tyrosine kinase, the intracellular pathway