targetable pathway
A cellular signaling cascade with molecular components that can be effectively inhibited or modulated by approved or investigational therapeutic agents.
Full Definition
Targetable pathways are cellular signaling networks that contain molecular components amenable to therapeutic intervention with existing or developmental drugs. In precision oncology, identifying which pathways are dysregulated and targetable in an individual patient's tumor guides treatment selection. Key targetable pathways include growth factor signaling (EGFR, HER2), cell cycle regulation (CDK4/6), DNA damage repair (PARP, ATM), and immune checkpoint regulation (PD-1/PD-L1). The concept of targetability depends on both biological understanding of pathway function and availability of effective inhibitors. Pathway analysis in precision oncology reports helps clinicians understand therapeutic options beyond single gene mutations, enabling more comprehensive treatment planning.
Usage
Usage note: Specify pathway name when possible; avoid vague references to 'pathways' without context.
In Context
- "The tumor showed activation of multiple targetable pathways, providing several therapeutic options." — molecular tumor board discussion
- "PI3K/AKT emerged as the most promising targetable pathway based on genomic and proteomic analysis." — precision oncology report