Cancer, a genetic disease, begins with changes in certain genes that transform healthy cells into cancerous ones. Over the years, scientists have made remarkable strides in developing targeted therapies that specifically aim at these cancer-driving genes.
Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH) Medical and Hemato Oncology Consultant Dr Venkatesh Mushini discusses a new era of precision medicine for cancer.
One major breakthrough came in 1971 when Judah Folkman highlighted the importance of blocking blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) to starve tumours of nutrients.
Since then, drugs like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) inhibitors have been approved to target this process in various cancers.
But the fight against cancer doesn’t stop there. New therapies have emerged, including those that prompt cancer cells to self-destruct, named apoptosis, and boost the body’s immune response against tumours, called immunotherapy.
There’s also excitement around treatments like CAR-T therapy, which involves modifying a patient’s immune cells to attack cancer more effectively.
However, cancer is a tricky opponent. Its diversity and ability to adapt mean that not all patients respond to these treatments, and even those who do can develop resistance over time. This is where precision medicine steps in.
Precision medicine, also known as molecular targeted therapy, takes a personalised approach to cancer treatment.
Instead of blasting all cells with toxic chemotherapy, precision medicine targets specific proteins or genetic changes unique to cancer cells. This means fewer side effects and better outcomes for patients.
But precision medicine isn’t without its challenges. Drug resistance remains a significant hurdle, thwarting many treatment efforts. To overcome this, scientists are diving deep into understanding the mechanisms behind drug resistance, using cutting-edge tools like gene editing technologies.
“We’re witnessing an exciting era in cancer treatment. With precision medicine, we have the potential to tailor treatments to individual patients, offering hope for better outcomes and improved quality of life. While challenges persist, continued research and innovation hold the key to unlocking the full potential of precision medicine in the fight against cancer,” concludes Dr Mushini.
To book an appointment at RBH call 17246800 or WhatsApp 32181810.
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