Once potential targets are identified, they must be validated through rigorous criteria:
Specificity: The target should be predominantly expressed or active in cancer cells and not in normal cells to minimize off-target effects. Drugability: The target should be amenable to modulation by small molecules or biologics. Functional Relevance: The target should play a crucial role in cancer cell survival, proliferation, or metastasis. Clinical Relevance: The target should have a clear association with patient outcomes, such as survival or response to existing therapies.
