In the context of future cancer research, what does moving towards precision medicine entail?
Answer
Tailoring treatment based on the specific genetic fingerprint of the patient’s tumor, rather than just the organ it started in.
The evolution in cancer treatment strategy is moving away from generalized protocols based solely on the organ of origin (e.g., 'lung cancer treatment') toward precision medicine. This advanced approach requires a deep understanding of the unique molecular and genetic profile, or 'genetic fingerprint,' of the individual patient's tumor. By identifying these specific drivers, scientists aim to select or design treatments—such as targeted drugs—that directly counteract the identified mutation or pathway active in that specific cancer, leading to highly tailored and potentially more effective therapeutic sequences.
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