32LBA The AGITG ICECREAM Study: The Irinotecan Cetuximab Evaluation and Cetuximab Response Evaluation Amongst Patients with a G13D Mutation – analysis of outcomes in patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer harbouring the KRAS G13D mutation

Molecular Landscape and Treatment Options for Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Over the last 20 years, median survival for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) has remarkably improved from about 12 to over 30 months, mainly because of the development of new agents and patient selection using predictive biomarkers. However, the identification of the most effective treatment for an individual patient is still a challenge. Molecular profiling of CRC has made great progress, but it is limited by tumor heterogeneity and absence of driver mutation. However, RAS, BRAF, and microsatellite instability are validated biomarker recommended by NCCN and ESMO. In this review, we discuss recent advances and future developments.

RAS and RAF mutation status in the selection of patients for anti-EGFR therapy

Anti-EGFR therapy in combination or not with chemotherapy is one of the mainstays of treatment for advanced colorectal cancer. KRAS exon 2 mutations have been validated as negative predictors of response, despite of it, an important percentage of patients do not benefit from anti-EGFR therapy. Factors like other RAS and BRAF mutations could contribute to primary resistance to cetuximab and panitumumab. Evidence surrounding RAS and BRAF status determination before anti-EGFR therapy administration is reviewed here.

Molecular Subtypes and Personalized Therapy in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Development of colorectal cancer occurs via a number of key pathways, with the clinicopathological features of specific subgroups being driven by underlying molecular changes. Mutations in key genes within the network of signalling pathways have been identified; however, therapeutic strategies to target these aberrations remain limited. As understanding of the biology of colorectal cancer has improved, this has led to a move toward broader genomic testing, collaborative research and innovative, adaptive clinical trial design. Recent developments in therapy include the routine adoption of wider mutational spectrum testing prior to use of targeted therapies and the first promise of effective immunotherapy for colorectal cancer patients. This review details current biomarkers in colorectal cancer for molecular stratification and for treatment allocation purposes, including open and planned precision medicine trials. Advances in our understanding, therapeutic strategy and technology will also be outlined.