Molecular oncology is changing the previous ways of cancer treatment by focusing on the genetic and molecular characteristics of tumors, giving it a more precise and targeted approach toward therapy. In this advanced field, clinicians now use the patient's unique genetic profile to personalize his care with more effective treatments while having fewer side effects.
In this blog, we will go through the basic practices of molecular oncology, from understanding cancer genetics and identifying biomarkers to implementing targeted therapies and utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic tools. We will also discuss how these advancements are changing traditional treatment methods, improving outcomes, and opening up new possibilities in cancer management.
Whether you are a health professional or simply interested in the future of cancer care, this publication will provide you with a complete overview of molecular oncology and its transformative potential.
Ways to Practice Molecular Oncology in Cancer Treatment
Molecular oncology involves integrating genetic insights into the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. By focusing on the molecular and genetic alterations present in cancer cells, this approach enables more personalized, effective treatments.
Below are key ways to practice molecular oncology in cancer treatment:
1. Genetic Profiling and Tumor Sequencing
The first step in practicing molecular oncology is to conduct comprehensive genetic profiling of tumors through sequencing. By examining the DNA and RNA of tumor cells, clinicians can identify genetic mutations, amplifications, deletions, and other abnormalities that drive cancer progression. This sequencing can be done using technologies such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), which offers an in-depth look at multiple genes simultaneously, helping to uncover actionable mutations that can be targeted with specific therapies.
Example: In breast cancer, the presence of mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can be a marker for a higher probability of response to PARP inhibitors, a form of targeted therapy.
2. Targeted Therapy
Once the molecular profile of the tumor is known, molecular oncology practitioners can apply targeted therapies aimed at specific molecular abnormalities. These therapies function by blocking the growth and spread of cancer through interference with molecules involved in tumor growth, survival, or metastasis. This usually results in fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy, as it targets only the cancer cells rather than healthy cells.
Example: For patients with NSCLC, those carrying a mutation in the EGFR gene can receive inhibitors that specifically target and block abnormal EGFR proteins responsible for their cancerous condition.
3. Biomarker Testing
Biomarker testing is a critical part of molecular oncology. Biomarkers are biological indicators, which can be proteins, genes, or mutations that predict how a cancer will behave or how it will respond to specific treatments. It helps identify the patients who will most likely respond to certain therapies and thus leads to a more personalized treatment approach.
Example: Biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors in tumors, such as melanoma or lung cancer are primarily PD-L1 expression. It can define a patient whether or not that individual is going to be suited to immunotherapy through testing PD-L1 expression.
4. Immunotherapy and Immune Profiling
The most promising modern approach of immunotherapy against oncology applies to the usage of the patient's own immune system against his disease. Therefore, immune profiling represents an indispensable role in the application of patients benefiting from immunotherapy and in this regard the role of checkpoint inhibitors, drugs targeting certain proteins the cancer cell would otherwise apply in order not to be perceived by the immune system and that the immunotherapeutic reactivates against such tumors.
Example: In melanoma, immune checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab or pembrolizumab are used for patients with high PD-L1 expression. These drugs enhance the body's immune system to recognize and attack tumor cells.
5. Liquid Biopsy
Liquid biopsy is an entirely non-invasive technique based on the detection of cancer-related genetic mutations and abnormalities in blood samples. It follows the ability to track genetic alterations in tumors during time without successive tissue biopsies. Therefore, liquid biopsy can be useful to monitor the evolution of cancer by detecting minimal residual disease and determining new mutations leading to drug-resistant cancer.
For example, in lung cancer, mutations such as EGFR, ALK, and ROS1 in ctDNA are identified by liquid biopsy, thus early detection of relapse is feasible and the next treatment could be tailored accordingly.
6. Clinical Trials and Personalized Medicine
Practicing molecular oncology also includes keeping abreast of ongoing clinical trials and experimental treatments. Personalized medicine, based on molecular profiling, is continually evolving with new research and therapies. By participating in clinical trials, patients can access cutting-edge treatments that may not yet be widely available.
Example: A new targeted therapy might be tested for a novel mutation in a clinical trial. That is the only hope left for patients who don't respond to traditional treatments of cancer. The molecular oncology practitioner must remain current with the latest research and findings to apply them to practice.
7. Pharmacogenomics
The term pharmacogenomics refers to the study of how an individual's genetic makeup influences his response to drugs. In molecular oncology, the concept of pharmacogenomics would be helpful to the clinician in choosing the right drug and dose for a patient suffering from cancer, based on his genetic profile. This helps avoid adverse drug reactions and increases the effectiveness of the treatment.
Example: Some patients may have genetic variants that make them more sensitive to chemotherapy drugs like 5-FU (fluorouracil), while others may metabolize the drug too quickly, making it ineffective. Pharmacogenomic testing can guide these treatment decisions.
8. Monitoring and Surveillance
The practice of molecular oncology involves continuous monitoring and surveillance. After the first line of treatment, it is important to follow up on the patient's molecular profile for potential resistance mechanisms or emerging mutations. Regular assessment through imaging, blood tests, or liquid biopsies helps oncologists identify recurrences or new genetic alterations that can guide the next steps in treatment.
Example: HER2 status in breast cancer patient is to be monitored periodically. Tumors can change over time, and targeted therapies are adjusted appropriately.
9. Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Molecular oncology can benefit only from a multidisciplinary team of geneticists, pathologists, oncologists, surgeons, and pharmacologists who all come together to generate an integrated treatment plan. This collaboration ensures effective management of all aspects of cancer from molecular profiling to therapy selection for a particular patient.
Example: A team might come together to figure out the best approach for a patient with a rare genetic mutation, combining targeted therapy with immunotherapy or clinical trial options for optimal outcomes.
Molecular oncology in cancer treatment is a dynamic and constantly evolving process that requires deep knowledge of genetics, technology, and personalized medicine. The field continues to advance rapidly, and staying current with the latest research and clinical trials is essential for offering the best possible care to cancer patients.
Talk To Expert : Dr Pooja Babbar
With a decade of expertise, Dr. Pooja Babbar is committed to providing compassionate, cutting-edge cancer care. Her extensive experience in medical oncology, combined with a focus on personalized treatments, ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of care. Whether through innovative therapies or a supportive approach, Dr. Pooja is dedicated to helping patients navigate their cancer journey with confidence and hope. Book a consultation today!
