Article Details - Overview
From Signal Transduction to Epigenetic Regulation of Gene Expression in Oncology: Challenging Clinical Cases
Summaries of Lectures From a Satellite Symposium Held in Conjunction With the 44th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology
Chicago, IL; May 30-June 3, 2008
This activity is not sanctioned by, nor a part of, the 44th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
Release Date: November 20, 2008
Expiration Date: November 20, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
PER Editorial Staff; PER Editorial Staff
Overview and Purpose
An improved understanding of molecular cancer biology has made possible the development of rationally designed therapeutic agents. In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) of the Bcr-Abl oncoprotein has changed the natural history of this disease. Current studies are focusing on identifying therapeutic targets to overcome resistance to Bcr-Abl inhibitors. Challenges remain in the care of patients with CML, including selecting alternative treatments for those who respond poorly to initial therapy. Epigenetic approaches are a new strategy to reverse the oncogenic phenotype by influencing gene expression. Because histones are key regulators of DNA and gene expression, histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have been explored, with efficacy demonstrated in patients with cutaneous lymphoma. In other solid tumors, such as lung and breast cancers, HDACIs are being investigated in combination with cytotoxic and/or targeted agents.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on advances in targeted therapy, including Bcr-Abl inhibitors and other novel approaches in CML and HDACIs in cutaneous lymphoma and other solid tumors.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for medical oncologists and hematologists involved in the care of patients with hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Evaluate the efficacy and safety of Bcr-Abl TKIs in patients with chronic-phase CML
- Summarize the key management issues associated with Bcr-Abl TKI therapy for patients with CML
- Outline the advances made with HDACIs in hematologic malignancies
- Discuss the rationale for combining HDACIs with cytotoxic and targeted agents in solid tumors
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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