Research in oncology has undergone a transformative evolution propelled by advances in biomarker discovery and drug target innovation. Biomarkers that encompass a wide range of biological molecules are essential in the early detection, diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Advanced next-generation sequencing technology in genomics and proteomics has greatly influenced personalised medicine allowing for more tailored treatment all the while reducing adverse toxicity.

Identification of precise drug targets has opened new avenues for cancer therapy. Targeted therapies now can be designed to interfere with specific molecules involved in cancer growth and progression, offering a promising alternative to traditional chemotherapy. These therapies have shown remarkable efficacy and specificity, minimizing damage to healthy tissues and improving the quality of life for patients.

The integration of biomarker discovery with drug target innovation represents a paradigm shift in oncology, moving towards a more personalized and effective approach to cancer treatment. This new era in cancer research is marked by the continuous exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying cancer, the development of novel therapeutic agents, and the implementation of advanced diagnostic tools. As a result, the future of oncology holds the promise of improved survival rates, better management of the disease, and ultimately, a higher quality of life for cancer patients.

Keywords: drug targets, biomarker, oncology, cancer

The ongoing battle against cancer is hindered by the formidable challenge of drug resistance, a complex barrier that significantly reduces the effectiveness of current and emerging therapies. The development of resistance reflects the impressive adaptability and resilience of cancer cells, making it a central concern in oncological research and treatment design. This comprehensive research Collection delves into the intricate maze of tumor drug resistance, uncovering the multifaceted genetic alterations, epigenetic transformations, and the crucial role of the tumor microenvironment in fostering this resistance. The complexities of drug resistance extend beyond the cellular level, encompassing the interplay between diverse cell populations within the tumor and their interactions with surrounding stromal and immune cells. This Collection will investigate how these complex biological dialogues contribute to a sanctuary for resistance, enabling the cancer's evasion from the lethal reach of drugs. The goal of this Collection is to bridge the gap between understanding the underpinnings of tumor drug resistance and applying this knowledge towards the development of more effective, precise, and durable cancer therapies. Through a multidisciplinary lens, it aims to explore the latest advancements in genomic, epigenomic, and systems biology approaches to decipher the complexity of tumor drug resistance.

This Collection aspires to inspire novel strategies that can anticipate and counteract the mechanisms of resistance, thereby enhancing the quality of life and survival rates for cancer patients worldwide. In doing so, it sets the stage for a new era in cancer therapy, where treatments are not only targeted and personalized but also adaptable to the evolving landscape of tumor resistance. Key themes and areas of focus: 1) molecular underpinnings of resistance; 2) the role of the tumor microenvironment; 3) cellular drug efflux and metabolism; 4) signaling pathways and cell survival; 5) tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution; 6) pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine; 7) overcoming drug resistance; 8) computational models and bioinformatics; 9) emerging technologies and future directions.

Keywords: tumor drug resistance, genetic mutations, tumor microenvironment, signaling pathways, non-coding RNAs, tumor heterogeneity, pharmacogenomics