Implementing targeted therapies in the treatment of glioblastoma: Previous shortcomings, future promises, and a multimodal strategy recommendation

Abstract

The introduction of targeted therapies to the field of oncology has prolonged the survival of several tumor types. Despite extensive research and numerous trials, similar outcomes have unfortunately not been realized for glioblastoma. For more than 15 years, the standard treatment of glioblastoma has been unchanged. This review walks through the elements that have challenged the success of previous trials and highlight some future promises. Concurrently, this review describes how institutions, through a multimodal and comprehensive strategy with 4 essential components, may increase the probability of finding a meaningful role for targeted therapies in the treatment of glioblastoma. These components are (1) prudent trial designs, (2) considered drug and target selection, (3) harnessed real-world clinical and molecular evidence, and (4) incorporation of translational research.