Opinions

Extensive research identified the deficiency of a highly accurate DNA repair process known as homologous recombination as an ‘Achilles heel’ in cancer, and led to the development of PARP inhibitors as single-agent therapies 

Using treatments only where clear benefit has been demonstrated and modulating doses based on evidence are potentially effective strategies to reduce the rising costs of oncology

First evidence for the efficacy of anti-PD-1 agents in children, adolescents and young adults with melanoma prompts the call for a change in cancer care for this population

Benefits reported for the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab further expand alternative therapeutic options for patients with unresected advanced disease

Novel agents, a rethinking of accepted treatment concepts and new roles for older treatment modalities are now driving liver cancer management

Lessons learned about the importance of the gut microbiome composition in immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy response could be crucial in tailoring cancer care 

Recent data indicate a role of immunotherapy for tumours with high levels of microsatellite instability, especially in the neoadjuvant setting

The development of KRAS selective inhibitors promises to expand treatment to a broader population of patients with KRAS-mutated tumours

Improvements in the understanding of molecular mechanisms, together with a greater focus on prevention, are key elements to countering gynaecological malignancies 

A more detailed picture of breast cancer establishment may facilitate prevention and detection in women at high risk