Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who were resistant to treatment collaborated with the University of Michigan to isolate circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from their blood. After in vitro culture, drug sensitivity tests were conducted, which identified compounds with significant cytotoxic effects (TPX-0005, Phase I clinical trial), successfully extending the patient's life by 18 months.

On December 8, 2020, Repotrectinib (code TPX-0005), developed by Turning Point Therapeutics, received FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for first-line treatment of ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer, showing an objective response rate of 93%. It was launched on November 27, 2023, for the treatment of patients with ROS1-positive NSCLC.

Case Summary

• When all clinically available drugs are resistant, it is possible to culture CTCs in vitro for extensive drug screening, and there is still hope of finding sensitive drugs.

• Drugs that are sensitive in in vitro tests can produce immediate effects after being administered to patients, significantly extending patient survival.