Transforming Cancer Treatment: The Legacy and Future of Gleevec

Abstract

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) was previously thought of as a terminal diagnosis, but with the introduction of the first targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor Gleevec, medicine shifted into an era of targeted small molecule treatment for cancers like CML. This article delves into the past events leading to Gleevec’s discovery and its mechanism of action in the context of the Philadelphia chromosome and the BCR‐ABL fusion protein. Gleevec’s remarkable ability to selectively block the BCR‐ABL protein has completely transformed CML from being fatal to a condition that can be managed effectively, especially in patients who are in the initial chronic phase of the cancer type. However, there are still hurdles in overcoming Gleevec resistance and dealing with accessibility issues to the medication. Besides that, Gleevec’s positive effects are not limited to  CML, it has also shown success in treating other cancer types caused by abnormalities in tyrosine kinase activity like Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL). This article will discuss how Gleevec is used in settings for these conditions by exploring its mode of action and effectiveness in improving patient outcomes. Additionally, it assesses the potential of Gleevec to pave the way for targeted therapies in precision medicine and its role in developing inhibitors to combat drug resistance issues. While Gleevec’s groundbreaking advancements have revolutionized oncology practices, significant challenges such as the cost of treatment and limited availability of resources persist. The paper ends by discussing research possibilities including investigating Gleevec’s efficacy in treating neurodegenerative conditions and enhancing global drug accessibility. Gleevec serves as an example of how precision medicine has reshaped cancer treatment and continues to drive progress in targeted therapy development.