Historically, cancer has been diagnosed and treated on the basis of the tissue of origin. The promise of personalized therapy, matched more precisely to an individual’s tumor, was ushered in with the development of molecularly targeted therapies, based on a greater understanding of cancer as a genomic-driven disease. Here, we discuss some of the evolution of genomic oncology, the inherent complexities and challenges, and how novel clinical trial designs are among the strategies being developed to address them and shape the future of personalized medicine in cancer.
The evolution of genomic oncology
In the 15 years since the first map of the human genome emerged, genetics has become an integral part of medical practice worldwide.1 Oncology is no exception; the genetic origins of cancer were suspected more than a century ago and it is now well understood that most cancers are driven by genetic alterations that disrupt key cellular pathways involved in tumor survival and progression.2
In the 15 years since the first map of the human genome emerged, genetics has become an integral part of medical practice worldwide.1 Oncology is no exception; the genetic origins of cancer were suspected more than a century ago and it is now well understood that most cancers are driven by genetic alterations that disrupt key cellular pathways involved in tumor survival and progression.2
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