Targeting Biology in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Chemotherapy nonspecifically affects all cells undergoing DNA replication and has severe side effects. Understanding of the biology of non Hodgkin lymphomas has led to development of drugs that target specific lymphoma cell functions and tumor microenvironment. Targeted agents used in combination with chemotherapy pave the way to a chemotherapy-free world. These drugs target multiple oncogenic pathways and modulate the immune system, with better outcomes. Such combinations should be administered only in clinical trials. Incorporating studies of the biology and genetics of these tumors into therapeutic studies may lead to a chemotherapy-free world with improved outcomes and reduced toxicities.