Question

What's the rationale for molecular classification in cancer?

A) It simplifies the treatment process by targeting all cancer types uniformly.
B) It categorizes cancer types based on symptoms for quicker diagnosis.
C) It enables personalized and targeted therapies for specific cancer subtypes.
D) It aims to generalize treatment approaches for various cancer types.

Answer 1

Molecular classification in cancer is critical for developing personalized therapies that target the genetic and molecular makeup of specific cancer subtypes, leading to more effective and less toxic treatments. Option C is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rationale for molecular classification in cancer is that it enables personalized and targeted therapies for specific cancer subtypes. Molecular classification involves understanding the unique genetic makeup and protein signatures of different cancers, which allows for the development of targeted pharmaceuticals.

These targeted therapies aim to exploit the biochemical pathways or genetic mutations driving cancer growth, thus reducing harm to healthy cells compared to traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. The use of proteomics and other molecular biology techniques helps to isolate these unique characteristics of cancer cells, to then potentially develop less toxic and more effective treatment regimens.