Molecular Classification and Targeted Therapy of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

The gastrointestinal stromal tumor(GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract,and was different from leiomyoma,neurogenic tumor,which occurs mainly with the Kit gene and platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha gene mutation.Targeting KIT has led to a new treatment paradigm in GISTs.Imatinib and sunitinib,both tyrosine kinase inhibitors directed to KIT,were approved for first-and second-line treatment of metastatic and unresectable GISTs.In this article,we will review the molecular classification and targeted drug therapy of GISTs.