Insight

Nature 441, 457-462 (25 May 2006) | doi:10.1038/nature04874; Published online 24 May 2006

Mechanisms of drug inhibition of signalling molecules

Judith S. Sebolt-Leopold1 and Jessie M. English2

The emergence of tumour-specific, molecularly targeted agents signifies a paradigm shift in cancer therapy, with less reliance on drugs that non-discriminately kill tumour and host cells. Although the diversity of targets giving rise to this new generation of anticancer drugs has expanded, many challenges persist in the design of effective treatment regimens. The complex interplay of signal-transduction pathways further complicates the customization of cancer treatments to target single mechanisms. However, despite uncertainty over precise or dominant mechanisms of action, especially for compounds targeting multiple gene products, emerging agents are producing significant therapeutic advances against a broad range of human cancers.

  1. Pfizer Global Research and Development, Michigan Laboratories, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA.
  2. Pfizer Research Technology Center, 620 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA.

Correspondence to: Judith S. Sebolt-Leopold1 Email: judith.leopold@pfizer.com

MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated.

NEWS AND VIEWS

Embryogenesis meets tumorigenesis

Nature Medicine News and Views (01 Aug 2006)

Extra navigation

.

naturejobs

natureproducts


ADVERTISEMENT