Molecular analysis of cell-free circulating DNA for the diagnosis of somatic mutations associated with resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in non-small-cell lung cancer

Expert Rev Mol Diagn. 2014 May;14(4):453-68. doi: 10.1586/14737159.2014.908120. Epub 2014 Apr 11.

Abstract

In non-small-cell lung cancer, the molecular diagnosis of somatic mutations is instrumental for the choice of the most appropriate treatment. However, despite an initial response, resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors occurs and thereafter tumors progress. For this reason, next generation inhibitors able to overcome acquired resistances are currently in development. Therefore, the identification of the molecular determinants of resistance is needed to adapt treatment accordingly. The analysis of circulating cell-free tumor DNA represents a powerful tool to monitor the somatic changes induced by treatment. This review focuses on the most recent advantages in the diagnosis of acquired resistance in circulating cell-free tumor DNA and underlines the strategies ready to be translated in the clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / blood
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / genetics
  • DNA / blood*
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA Mutational Analysis
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors / genetics
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / blood
  • Lung Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Lung Neoplasms / genetics
  • Mutation
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • DNA
  • EGFR protein, human
  • ErbB Receptors