Resistance to molecularly targeted therapy in non-small-cell lung cancer

The discovery of oncogenic driver gene mutations, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation, anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion, ROS proto-oncogene 1 (ROS1) fusion, and ret proto-oncogene (RET) fusion, has led to the development of molecularly targeted therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This therapy has changed the standard of care for NSCLC. Despite the dramatic response to molecularly targeted therapy, almost all patients ultimately develop resistance to the drugs. To understand the mechanisms of resistance to molecularly targeted agents, it is essential to understand the molecular pathways of NSCLC. Here, we review the mechanisms of resistance to molecularly targeted therapy and discuss strategies to overcome drug resistance.