Novel medical therapeutics in glioblastomas, including targeted molecular therapies, current and future clinical trials

Abstract

The prognosis for glioblastoma is poor despite optimal therapy with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. New therapies that improve survival and quality of life are needed. Research has increased our understanding of the molecular pathways important for gliomagenesis and disease progression. Novel agents have been developed against these targets, including receptor tyrosine kinases, intracellular signaling molecules, epigenetic abnormalities, and tumor vasculature and microenvironment. This article reviews novel therapies for glioblastoma, with an emphasis on targeted agents.