Progressing Towards a Human-Centric Approach in Cancer Research

Front Oncol. 2022 Jul 19:12:896633. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2022.896633. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

Despite the advancement in research methodologies and technologies for cancer research, there is a high rate of anti-cancer drug attrition. In this review, we discuss different conventional and modern approaches in cancer research and how human-centric models can improve on the voids conferred by more traditional animal-centric models, thereby offering a more reliable platform for drug discovery. Advanced three-dimensional cell culture methodologies, along with in silico computational analysis form the core of human-centric cancer research. This can provide a holistic understanding of the research problems and help design specific and accurate experiments that could lead to the development of better cancer therapeutics. Here, we propose a new human-centric research roadmap that promises to provide a better platform for cancer research and drug discovery.

Keywords: animal-centric models; cancer research; drug attrition; drug discovery; human-centric models.

Publication types

  • Review