New anti-tumor drugs: According to whether molecular target testing is required, commonly used small molecule targeted drugs and large molecule monoclonal antibody drugs can be divided into two categories: molecular targets that need to be detected and those that do not need to be detected.
With the deepening of medical research, the best means of anti-tumor drugs are becoming more and more accurate. The research and development of new anti-tumor drugs not only brings hope to patients, but also realizes the best personalization on the basis of molecular target detection. How to choose the right drug according to whether molecular target testing is required? This article will demystify small molecule targeted drugs and large molecule monoclonal antibody drugs.
Small molecule targeted drugs can penetrate cell membranes and directly act on specific molecular targets in tumor cells, thereby inhibiting the growth and spread of tumor cells. Because the mechanism of action of these drugs is highly dependent on specific gene mutations or protein expression within tumor cells, molecular target detection prior to use is essential. Molecular target testing can not only help doctors determine the indication of a drug, but also how well a patient responds to a drug. For example, the use of EGFR mutation testing in non-small cell lung cancer** can effectively screen patients who are suitable for EGFR inhibitors**.
Unlike small-molecule drugs, large-molecule monoclonal antibodies are mainly produced and designed in vitro, and they can specifically recognize and bind to molecular targets on the surface of tumor cells or body fluids, thereby activating the body's immune system to attack tumor cells. The use of some monoclonal antibody drugs may not require rigorous testing of molecular targets. For example, some immune checkpoint inhibitors can be used without defining the expression level of a specific target because their mechanism of action is to remove the suppression of T cells, thereby enhancing the immune system's attack on tumors.
References: National Health Commission. Guidelines for the Clinical Application of Novel Antineoplastic Drugs (2023 Edition).
Whether it is a small molecule targeted drug or a large molecule monoclonal antibody drug, in practical clinical application, how to carry out effective molecular target detection and drug selection according to the specific condition of the patient is the key to improving the success rate. The development of an individual** protocol requires close collaboration between the doctor, the patient, and the testing laboratory. The research and development of new anti-tumor drugs has brought new vitality to cancer patients. As an important part of precision medicine, molecular target detection plays an indispensable role in the application of small molecule targeted drugs and large molecule monoclonal antibody drugs. In the face of tumors, the common enemy of mankind, scientific progress and personalized solutions will open a new door to a healthy future for patients. In the future, we look forward to the advent of more new anti-tumor drugs and more accurate and efficient molecular target detection technologies. Let's pay attention to every progress in the frontiers of medicine and contribute our strength to the fight against cancer.