Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas: From Genetic Diversity to Targeted Therapies

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PCPGs) are rare neuroendocrine tumors that arise from the chromaffin tissue of adrenal medulla and sympathetic ganglia. Although metastatic PCPGs account for only 10% of clinical cases, morbidity and mortality are high because of the uncontrollable mass effect and catecholamine level generated by these tumors. Despite our expanding knowledge of PCPG genetics, the clinical options to effectively suppress PCPG progression remain limited. Several recent translational studies revealed that PCPGs with different molecular subtypes exhibit distinctive oncogenic pathways and spectrum of therapy resistance. This suggests that therapeutics can be adjusted based on the signature molecular and metabolic pathways of PCPGs. In this review, we summarized the latest findings on PCPG genetics, novel therapeutic targets, and perspectives for future personalized medicine.