Unveiling Therapeutic Targets for Esophageal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Esophageal cancer is a highly aggressive and deadly disease, ranking as the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite advances in treatment, the prognosis remains poor. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for achieving complete remission, with treatment options varying based on disease stage. Surgical intervention and endoscopic treatment are used for localized cancer, while systemic treatments like chemoradiotherapy and targeted drug therapy play a crucial role. Molecular markers such as HER2 and EGFR can be targeted with drugs like trastuzumab and cetuximab, and immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab show promise by targeting immune checkpoint proteins. Epigenetic modifications offer new avenues for targeted therapy. Treatment selection depends on factors like stage, tumor location, and patient health, with post-operative and rehabilitation care being essential. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and supportive care are key to improving outcomes. Continued research is needed to develop effective targeted drugs with minimal side effects. This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers dedicated to enhancing esophageal cancer treatment outcomes.

Keywords: esophageal cancer; molecular markers; multidisciplinary approach; prognosis; targeted therapy.

Figure 1

Schematic drawing of molecular mechanism of anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 inhibitor-mediated cancer immunotherapy. Immune effect of T cell is suppressed when there is an interaction between PD-1 on T-cell surface and PD-L1 on cancer cells. The therapeutic antibodies (anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1) for EC immunotherapy bind to PD-1 and PD-L1 and inhibit their interaction.