[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — A research team led by Professors Byung-Chul Cho and Ki-Bbeum Lee, along with resident physician Ju-Seong Sim at the Yonsei Cancer Center, has identified new possibilities for MET gene-targeted therapy in solid tumor treatment, according to a study published on July 30 in Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, a leading journal in the oncology field.

The MET gene, which plays a key role in cancer cell proliferation and metastasis, has long been a primary target in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). MET overexpression in NSCLC has been associated with favorable responses to targeted therapies, some of which are already in clinical use. The Yonsei team now suggests that MET-targeted approaches could be expanded to other solid tumors, including colorectal and gastric cancers.

(From left) Professors Byung-chul Cho and Ki-bbeum Lee of the Department of Medical Oncology at Yonsei Cancer Center, and resident physician Ju-seong Sim. (Photo courtesy of Severance Hospital)
(From left) Professors Byung-chul Cho and Ki-bbeum Lee of the Department of Medical Oncology at Yonsei Cancer Center, and resident physician Ju-seong Sim. (Photo courtesy of Severance Hospital)


The researchers observed that MET gene aberrations occur across multiple cancer types and that early detection combined with targeted therapies could improve treatment outcomes. The study also highlights ongoing research into combination therapies, integrating MET inhibitors with immune checkpoint inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
A key finding centers on MET-targeted therapy as a promising option for patients with acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors. When resistance to EGFR inhibitors emerges, MET gene overexpression often compensates, driving tumor growth. The researchers propose that dual targeting of EGFR and MET may help sustain anti-tumor efficacy.

“Our findings confirm that the MET gene is an important therapeutic target not only in lung cancer but also in colorectal, gastric, and other solid tumors,” said Professor Byung-chul Cho. “This strategy offers new hope for patients with resistance to EGFR inhibitors.”

The study underscores the growing potential of precision oncology, where therapies are tailored to specific genetic alterations, offering hope for improved outcomes across a broader spectrum of cancers.

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