The Impact of Genetic Mutations on the Efficacy of Immunotherapies in Lung Cancer

Ki Lui, Kwok Kuen Cheung, Winnie Wing Man Ng, Yanping Wang, Doreen W.H. Au, William C. Cho

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, primarily driven by genetic mutations. The most common genetic alterations implicated in lung cancer include mutations in TP53, KRAS, KEAP1, NF1, EGFR, NRF2, ATM, ALK, Rb1, BRAF, MET, and ERBB2. Targeted therapies have been developed to inhibit cancer growth by focusing on these specific genetic mutations. However, either the mutations are undruggable or the efficacy of these therapies is often compromised over time due to the emergence of drug resistance, which can occur through additional mutations in the targeted protein or alternative growth signaling pathways. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment by leveraging the body’s immune system. Notable advancements include immune checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies targeting cell surface receptors, antibody–drug conjugates, and bispecific antibodies. This review provides an overview of the mechanisms of FDA-approved immunotherapeutic drugs, offering an updated perspective on the current state and future developments in lung cancer therapy. More importantly, the factors that positively and negatively impact the immunotherapy’s efficacy will also be discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Article number11954
JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences
Volume25
Issue number22
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2024

Keywords

  • chemoresistance
  • genetic mutation
  • immunotherapy
  • lung cancer

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The Impact of Genetic Mutations on the Efficacy of Immunotherapies in Lung Cancer'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this