Targeted Therapy for Cancer

Targeted Therapy at UVM Cancer Center

Cancer cells have genetic changes (mutations) that make them different from healthy cells. Because of these changes, cancer cells make higher levels of proteins or other substances (biomarkers). Targeted therapy, also called precision medicine, uses these biomarkers to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth.

At University of Vermont Cancer Center, our medical oncologists have extensive experience using targeted therapy to treat many types of cancer. They work closely with other specialists to develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include targeted therapy alone or in combination with other cancer drugs or treatments.

A medical provider kneels while speaking with a patient.

Why Choose UVM Health?

Throughout your treatment, you are in good hands with expert guidance and close monitoring in a caring, supportive environment.

As a leading cancer program in the region, we offer:

Experienced team: Your care team includes physicians, advanced practice personnel, nurses and oncology pharmacists with deep knowledge of, and experience in, the use of targeted therapy. As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our physicians are active researchers and physician-leaders.
Clinical trials: Our participation in clinical trials can give you access to the latest treatment options years before they become widely available. If you are eligible for a clinical trial, your doctor will explain the benefits and risks and let you know the next steps for enrollment.
Convenience: Our network of providers gives you access to targeted therapy and other cancer services in treatment locations throughout Vermont and northern New York. We coordinate appointments whenever possible, so you can see multiple experts on one day.

What to Expect

We offer targeted therapy for a wide range of cancers. To determine if targeted therapy is an option for you, your doctor will perform a biopsy to look for biomarkers. A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that takes a sample of tissue from the tumor for evaluation, including genetic testing. At UVM Cancer Center, we perform genetic testing of most biopsy samples in-house.

The main types of targeted therapy drugs include:

Monoclonal antibodies: Antibodies are immune proteins that circulate in your blood searching for foreign invaders. Monoclonal antibodies are made in a laboratory to target biomarkers on cancer cells. When they meet their target, they attach to the cancer cell and attack it. Some monoclonal antibodies block cell growth, cause self-destruction, deliver a toxin or cut off blood supply to the tumor. Others are considered a type of immunotherapy that flags the cell for destruction by the immune system.
Small molecule drugs: These drugs attach to protein targets on cancer cells. Their small size allows them to enter and attack the cell from the inside.

Most types of targeted therapy are oral medications you can take at home. If you need an intravenous (IV) infusion, our outpatient infusion clinics offer comfort, support and a highly trained, caring team.

Compared with chemotherapy, the side effects of targeted therapy are typically less intense but can still be serious. Our providers are skilled in recognizing and treating these side effects.

Cancer Care