Development of Molecularly Targeted Therapies to Treat Pediatric Malignancies

Abstract

Drugs and biologics developed to treat children with cancer have been historically developed in adults for adult indications. Although leading to many useful drugs and biologics to treat pediatric cancer, future development of molecularly targeted therapies (MTTs) should be directed toward pediatric tumors more specifically to maximize antitumor efficacy while minimizing acute morbidity and long-term disability. This will put pediatric clinicians closer to the goal of cure for all children diagnosed with cancer.