Dr. Huang on Research in ALK+ NSCLC

Chao H. Huang, MD, FACP, associate professor of medical oncology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, discusses ongoing research around the use of ALK inhibitors for non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Much of today’s research is focused on newer generations of ALK inhibitors, Huang says. Understanding the different mechanisms of resistance that arise is crucial when determining subsequent treatment options, Huang explains.

Some resistance mechanisms may not concern ALK genes at all, and other research is exploring MET inhibition, which has a different mode of action than ALK inhibition, Huang continues. Additional research is examining combination therapy with ALK and MET inhibitors as a potential means of overcoming resistance to ALK inhibitors.