Current research and treatment for gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Core Tip

Core tip: Research in the histogenesis of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) identified gene mutations in KIT, platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha and BRAF. The discovery of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has allowed targeted therapy in metastatic and high-risk resected GISTs. However, the emergence of TKI-resistant GISTs has raised some important treatment issues. Newer TKIs and alternative targeted therapy within the domain of BRAF and the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, heat shock protein 90 and succinate dehydrogenase inhibition are being investigated and appear promising. Many clinical trials have been undertaken and are still ongoing to define the best molecular targeted therapy for GISTs. The European, American and Asian guidelines on GISTs provide useful resources for specialists dealing with these interesting tumors.