Symposium Overview and Purpose

Raf and VEGFR regulate cell proliferation and angiogenesis, respectively, and inappropriate activation of these pathways is seen in a wide variety of tumor types, including RCC, NSCLC, melanoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Several orally available small-molecule kinase inhibitors have been developed to inhibit Raf and VEGFR, 2 of which were approved in 2006 for use in patients with RCC. As this class of targeted agents grows, it becomes increasingly important for physicians to be educated about the rationale for targeting these pathways in cancer as well as their efficacy, management of adverse events, and new directions in the integration of these agents into current treatment modalities. The Interface Between Molecular Biology and Clinical Practice: Targeting the Ras/Raf Signaling Network in Cancer symposium is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the class of multitargeted kinase inhibitors and the clinical experience with these agents in the treatment of cancer.

This presentation was selected by the American Society of Clinical Oncology® as an independent educational activity held in conjunction with an ASCO® meeting. This presentation is not sponsored or endorsed by ASCO.

Target Audience

This educational program is directed toward medical oncologists, basic researchers and investigators, and other physicians with an interest in recent advances in targeted treatment of solid tumors. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology are required for successful participation in this activity. Fellows, nurses, and other individuals interested in oncology are also invited to attend.

CME Accreditation and Credit Designation

Physicians’ Education Resource is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Physicians’ Education Resource designates this educational activity for a maximum of 2 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in
the activity.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this symposium, you should be able to:

  • Discuss the role of the Raf and VEGF pathways in the pathogenesis of cancer
  • Describe the rationale for agents targeting the Raf, VEGF, and other signaling pathways
  • Evaluate the activity of small-molecule inhibitors of Raf and VEGFR in patients with
    hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Review the clinical data on signal transduction inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC
  • List agents targeting the Raf and VEGF pathways and review clinical experience with these agents
    in RCC
  • Assess the efficacy and safety of combining multitargeted kinase inhibitors with chemotherapy in patients with metastatic melanoma

Acknowledgement

This activity is uspported by an educational grant from: