Abstract
The theoretical framework for the field of cancer research is based on two main principles. The first is that cancer advances in a stepwise manner, with each alteration driving cells further toward a malignant state. Second, to cure cancer we must target only cancer-specific properties. Here, we analyze the birth and propagation of the cancer research paradigm. We believe the current paradigm is immersed in crisis and that the field would benefit from integrating theories within and outside the normal modes of research to compile a new framework, with the hope of faster progress and significantly fewer cancer-related deaths.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 299-303 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Trends in Molecular Medicine |
| Volume | 18 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| DOIs |
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| State | Published - Jun 2012 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:We must bear in mind that finding a ‘magic bullet’ is a means to an end. The ultimate goal of cancer research is to produce a reality where fewer people suffer and die from cancer, whether it is because it was cured, contained at a stable, bearable stage, or prevented from developing altogether. Although this concept is fairly accepted among physicians, for most cancer researchers the battle against cancer is still a battle of ‘all or none’. Moreover, to appeal to funding agencies, most cancer research grant proposals comply with the targeted therapy concept and offer new and tempting magic bullets. Both laboratory leaders and funding bodies should adjust to the changing times and consider channeling more resources to complementing strategies that decrease cancer-related deaths at the expense of developing the ‘ultimate drug’.
Keywords
- Cancer
- Chemotherapy
- Kuhn
- Paradigm shift
- Targeted therapy
