Molecular biologic features of non-small cell lung cancer. Clinical implications.

A fuller understanding of the fundamental mechanisms involved in tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis will enable us to develop innovative approaches to detection and treatment that will improve the poor survival of patients with lung cancer. Current information suggests that certain individuals may be predisposed to developing lung cancer and that lung cancers, like other solid tumors, are characterized by the activation of oncogenes, the expression of growth factor loops, and the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. Within the next decade, it is likely that genetic abnormalities will be used to identify individuals at risk for lung cancer, to select patients for adjuvant therapy, and to develop novel forms of treatment.