Molecular Targeted Therapy in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: New Options for Tailored Treatments

Simple Summary Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of diseases in which bone marrow stem cells acquire genetic alterations and can initiate leukemia, blocking the production of mature blood cells. It is of crucial importance to identify those genetic abnormalities because some of them can be the targeted. To date only very few drugs are approved for patients manifesting this group of disorders and there is an urgent need to develop new effective therapies. This review gives an overview of the genetic of MDS and the therapeutic options available and in clinical experimentation. Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic disorders characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, progressive cytopenias and increased risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia. The improved understanding of the underlying biology and genetics of MDS has led to better disease and risk classification, paving the way for novel therapeutic opportunities. Indeed, we now have a vast pipeline of targeted agents under pre-clinical and clinical development, potentially able to modify the natural history of the diverse disease spectrum of MDS. Here, we review the latest therapeutic approaches (investigational and approved agents) for MDS treatment. A deep insight will be given to molecularly targeted therapies by reviewing new agents for individualized precision medicine.

Automated summary

Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of diseases caused by genetic alterations in bone marrow stem cells, which can lead to leukemia and block the production of mature blood cells. Improved understanding of the genetics and biology of MDS has led to better disease and risk classification, opening up opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches. Targeted agents under development may potentially modify the natural course of MDS, providing hope for more personalized precision medicine.