Current status and future issue of molecular targeted agents in solid tumors

lessons learned from renal cell carcinoma

Abstract

We are facing a dramatic shift from cytokine therapy to molecular targeted agents in the therapeutic strategy for advanced renal cell carcinoma. Molecular targeted agents used in renal cell carcinoma, tyrosin kinase inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, and anti-VEGF antibody, inhibit tumor growth mainly though anti-angiogenic activity. Those agents have different profiles of adverse events and sometimes induce unexpected serious events, although having a strong anti-tumor growth. To ensure maximum therapeutic effect, a team approach involving multi-disciplinary staffs becomes more important than ever.