Advancing therapeutics in small-cell lung cancer. Review uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 10-15% of lung cancers and is characterized by early metastasis, treatment resistance and rapid progression. Treatment advancements have been stagnant for decades, with chemotherapy as the mainstay and immune checkpoint inhibitors offering only modest survival extensions. However, new insights into tumor heterogeneity and recent practice-changing observations such as the identification of targetable cell surface proteins could effectively transform SCLC therapy. In this Review, we highlight key advances in SCLC biology, therapeutic innovation and biomarker development. Finally, we discuss the role of reverse translation in optimizing treatments, approaches to overcoming resistance and ensuring equitable access to care.

publication date

  • June 16, 2025

Research

keywords

  • Lung Neoplasms
  • Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 105008250172

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1038/s43018-025-00996-1

PubMed ID

  • 40523990

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 6

issue

  • 6