Precision medicine and beyond: Evolving roles of targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and artificial intelligence in oncology

Abstract

Precision medicine in oncology is an evolving therapeutic approach that leverages genetic, clinical, and biomarker data to tailor treatments to individual patients. This review explores the three core pillars of modern precision oncology: targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into clinical practice. Targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates, selectively inhibit molecular pathways involved in tumor growth. While conventional chemotherapy remains the backbone of treatment and has improved remission rates, its cytotoxic nature limits broader applicability and increases the risk of comorbidities. Immunotherapies, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies, have transformed treatment for hematologic malignancies and are now being adapted for solid tumors such as colorectal, pancreatic, and hepatocellular carcinomas through novel combination regimens. This review also highlights the therapeutic potential of modulating the tumor microenvironment and introduces emerging modalities such as neoantigen vaccines and microRNA-based therapies. Furthermore, we outline the expanding role of AI in enhancing cancer diagnosis, drug development, and clinical decision-making. By integrating computational tools with molecular therapies, precision medicine rapidly advances toward individualized data-driven care. This review provides an overview of established therapies in the current clinical practice, novel regimens, and emerging AI technologies. Despite ongoing challenges, such as resistance and toxicity, precision medicine demonstrates significant promise in improving oncologic outcomes and transforming cancer care.

Keywords

Precision medicine / Targeted therapy / Immunotherapy / Artificial intelligence / Cancer treatment / Oncology

Funding

None.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

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