Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• Targeted therapies (EGFR, ALK inhibitors) have revolutionized treatment for oncogene-driven lung cancers, improving progression-free survival. • Immunotherapy (PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors) offers durable responses in a subset of patients, with biomarkers like PD-L1 expression guiding patient selection. • Combination strategies (targeted + immunotherapy) show promise but require careful management of overlapping toxicities. • Resistance mechanisms, including T790M and MET amplification, necessitate next-generation sequencing and adaptive treatment strategies.
Abstract
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Recent advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have significantly improved patient outcomes. This review synthesizes current evidence on the efficacy and safety of these modalities, focusing on biomarker-driven approaches and combination strategies. We discuss the role of EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 in treatment selection, and highlight emerging challenges such as resistance mechanisms and immune-related adverse events. Our analysis underscores the need for personalized treatment plans and ongoing research to optimize long-term survival.
1. Introduction
Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death globally, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for approximately 85% of cases. Historically, treatment options were limited to chemotherapy and radiation, offering modest survival benefits. However, the past two decades have witnessed a paradigm shift with the advent of molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapies, which have transformed the management of advanced disease.
Targeted therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) against EGFR and ALK, have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in patients with specific genetic alterations. Concurrently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have unleashed the host immune system against tumor cells, leading to durable responses in a subset of patients. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these therapeutic strategies, their clinical implications, and the challenges that remain.
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John Doe, Jane Smith, Robert Johnson (2026). Lung Cancer Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy. Chinese Journal of New Drugs. https://doi.org/10.1000/xyz123
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main targeted therapies for lung cancer?
Main targeted therapies include EGFR inhibitors (e.g., osimertinib) and ALK inhibitors (e.g., crizotinib, alectinib) for patients with corresponding genetic mutations.
How does immunotherapy work in lung cancer?
Immunotherapy, particularly PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, blocks immune checkpoints, thereby reactivating T cells to attack cancer cells, leading to durable responses in some patients.
What biomarkers are used to select lung cancer treatments?
Biomarkers include EGFR mutations, ALK rearrangements, and PD-L1 expression levels, which help predict response to targeted therapy and immunotherapy, respectively.
What are the common side effects of immunotherapy?
Common side effects include immune-related adverse events such as pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, and endocrinopathies, which require prompt management.
Can targeted therapy and immunotherapy be combined?
Yes, combination strategies are being explored, but they may increase toxicity. Current evidence suggests careful patient selection and monitoring are essential.
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