Innovative molecular targeted agents in hepatocellular carcinoma: new gladiators on the arena

Minerva Chir. 2017 Jun;72(3):206-218. doi: 10.23736/S0026-4733.17.07311-4. Epub 2017 Feb 14.

Abstract

Treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma remains a challenge, with discouraging results in terms of survival. Following the approval of the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib, a large number of molecular targeted agents have been tested, but many have failed to demonstrate significant efficacy in clinical trials. However, the deeper knowledge in HCC pathogenesis achieved through the years has enabled us to explore new targetable pathways as well as biomarkers that could lead to treatment personalization. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update of the most recent data regarding new drugs under investigation ‒ some like regorafenib, very close to its approval ‒ and new possible targets for future treatments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / therapy
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Liver Neoplasms / mortality
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy
  • Metaphor
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy* / methods
  • Patient Selection*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Antineoplastic Agents