Current status of predictive biomarkers for neoadjuvant therapy in esophageal cancer

Core Tip

Core tip: To achieve individualization of neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced esophageal cancers, predictive biomarkers are urgently needed. Biomarker development using multimodal approaches, including gene expression profiling, single nucleotide polymorphisms, microRNAs, proteomics, immunohistochemistry, serum biomarkers and conventional blood tests, seem promising. Independent validation studies will establish novel prognostic modalities based on molecular biomarkers. Progress of predictive modalities and further studies on the molecular background of patients with a poor prognosis will facilitate the development of new effective therapies for patients resistant to the present neoadjuvant therapy. Prognostic stratification of patients will promote efforts toward novel therapeutic strategies.