Copyright © 2011 SciRes. JCT Tumor Resistance to Molecularly Targeted Agents

Despite the development of new targeted cancer therapies, primary and secondary tumors continue to be a leading cause of suffering and mortality worldwide. The complexity and heterogeneity of malignancies ultimately result in tu-mor resistance to therapies, such as EGFR inhibitiors, anti-angiogenesis agents, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. An example of targeted therapies for renal cell carcinoma is presented, including the SAE profile and efficacy of 6 targeted agents. Although survival is improved, resistance and an increased side effect profile diminish the benefits of these agents. New agents are needed which are pathway independent and which can overcome tumor resistance without adding to the side effect profile of current therapies