Why everyone is talking about Extended Precision Oncology

Did you know that standard precision oncology can currently target fewer than 7% of known cancer driver genes?

While genomic testing has advanced rapidly, and can now identifying thousands of molecular irregularities within cancer cells¹, the development of new precision oncology drugs has not kept pace. That leaves over 93% of these potential targets unexplored. Conventional drug discovery processes take 10+ years and cost billions of dollars, so they are not going to close the gap any time soon.

Extended Precision Oncology is the most comprehensive way to match molecular vulnerabilities in cancer cells to potential treatment options. That is why it is becoming a game-changer in cancer treatment.

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What is Extended Precision Oncology?

Extended Precision Oncology is an innovative approach that dramatically expands the range of therapeutic options available to cancer patients. Unlike traditional methods, which typically rely on a limited set of approved cancer-specific drugs, this approach matches many more genetic mutations found in tumors with existing medications and supplements already proven safe and effective for other medical conditions².

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How Does It Work?

Using advanced bioinformatics—a sophisticated way to analyze biological data—scientists can precisely link over 2,000 genetic vulnerabilities identified in cancer cells to well-researched, evidence-backed medications and supplements³. This means that instead of waiting years or even decades for new drugs to be developed, patients and doctors can immediately access personalized, comprehensive treatment strategies tailored precisely to their cancer’s genetic profile.

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Complementing Current Treatment Options 

It’s important to emphasize that Extended Precision Oncology doesn’t replace conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Rather, it works alongside these therapies, providing additional targeted treatments aimed directly at a patient’s unique cancer mutations. This combined approach helps attack cancer from multiple angles simultaneously, potentially increasing effectiveness and improving patient outcomes⁴.

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Why is This Approach Important?

With Extended Precision Oncology, patients gain immediate access to personalized treatment options that traditional oncology simply cannot provide. By using medications with established safety profiles, this strategy not only expands treatment possibilities but also reduces uncertainties related to side effects and long-term safety⁵.

In short, Extended Precision Oncology turns precision cancer treatment from a distant promise into a practical reality today. That’s why patients, doctors, and researchers alike are excited about its potential to transform cancer care.

To learn more about how Extended Precision Oncology could support your treatment journey, speak with your oncologist or a specialized provider today.

Astron is a research organization focused on advancing precision oncology through multiple lenses. We provide reports to patients under the guidance of their referring oncologist, where clinicians believe our insights may support patient care. If you’re a patient interested in our research or reports, please speak with your primary clinician about whether Astron may be appropriate for your recovery journey. If you’re a clinician interested in learning more or collaborating with us, please reach out to support@astron.health — we’d be happy to connect.

References:

1. ICGC/TCGA Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes Consortium. (2020). Pan-cancer analysis of whole genomes. Nature, 578, 82–93.
2. Pushpakom, S., et al. (2019). Drug repurposing: progress, challenges and recommendations. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 18, 41–58.
3. Corsello, S. M., et al. (2017). The Drug Repurposing Hub: a next-generation drug library and information resource. Nature Medicine, 23(4), 405-408.
4. Sicklick, J. K., et al. (2019). Molecular profiling of cancer patients enables personalized combination therapy: the I-PREDICT study. Nature Medicine, 25(5), 744-750.
5. Bertolini, F., et al. (2015). Drug repurposing in oncology—patient and health systems opportunities. Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, 12(12), 732-742.