Precision Oncology in Thymic Epithelial Tumors: Therapeutic Horizons and Implementation Barriers
International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol.27, no.15, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Review
- Volume: 27 Issue: 15
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.3390/ijms27156613
- Journal Name: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Keywords: antibody–drug conjugates, ctDNA, genomic alterations, precision oncology, targeted therapy, thymic epithelial tumors
- Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs), comprising thymomas and thymic carcinomas, are rare, biologically heterogeneous thoracic malignancies with limited therapeutic advances since platinum-based regimens were adopted decades ago. Recent genomic and immunophenotypic profiling has uncovered recurrent genomic alterations and high programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, particularly in thymic carcinoma, yet few targeted or immunotherapies have achieved regulatory approval. This mini-review synthesizes current knowledge on TET heterogeneity and the genomic landscape, evaluates the clinical evidence supporting targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors, and examines emerging biomarkers, including circulating tumor DNA. We also address practical barriers to precision oncology in TETs: challenges of next-generation sequencing implementation and cost in resource-limited settings; scarcity of large, biomarker-driven trials; and safety concerns unique to TETs (immune-related toxicity). Finally, we discuss the translational hurdles for antibody–drug conjugates and cellular therapies, limited validated cell surface targets, antigen heterogeneity, and preclinical model gaps and outline strategic paths forward to enable rational, safe, and equitable precision therapeutics for TET patients.