Renal cell carcinoma therapy: Current and new drug candidates

Drug Discov Today. 2022 Jan;27(1):304-314. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.07.009. Epub 2021 Jul 12.

Abstract

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common and lethal tumor of the urological system. Curative treatment of localized RCC includes nephrectomy, radio-ablation, and active surveillance, whereas metastatic RCC (mRCC) requires a combination of surgery and systemic therapy. Response to conventional therapy is limited but, recently, many novel therapies for mRCC have emerged, including targeted therapies and new immunotherapeutic agents. Nevertheless, development of resistance and limited durable responses demand new anticancer candidates with improved selectivity and efficacy. In this review, we summarize recent preclinical studies of novel natural and synthetic compounds to treat RCC, detailing their mechanisms of action and anticancer activities.

Keywords: Drug resistance; New anticancer agents; Renal cell carcinoma; Targeted therapy; Treatment.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Biological Products / pharmacology
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / drug therapy*
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biological Products
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors