On systems and control approaches to therapeutic gain
2006

Therapeutic Gain Strategies in Cancer Treatment

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Radivoyevitch Tomas, Loparo Kenneth A, Jackson Robert C, Sedwick W David

Primary Institution: Case Western Reserve University

Hypothesis

Can mathematical models of cancer processes improve treatment strategies for different types of leukemia?

Conclusion

Mathematical models can help define cancer treatment strategies that selectively target malignant cells while sparing normal cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • Mathematical models of cancer processes are increasingly common and can have predictive capabilities.
  • The direct approach aims to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
  • The indirect approach seeks to improve outcomes for non-curable cancers by mimicking curable cases.

Takeaway

This study looks at how we can use math to create better cancer treatments that hurt the bad cells but not the good ones.

Methodology

The study formulates two therapeutic gain strategies using mathematical models and control theory.

Limitations

The models may not capture all critical determinants of treatment failure.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.06

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2407-6-104

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication