Seeking improved treatments for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer & KRAS G12C mutation (sotorasib)

Public summary

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, responsible for twice as many deaths as any other cancer type. Dr Lindsay's work targets non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most common subtype, because improving outcomes here offers the greatest potential impact on survival. KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in lung cancer (and several other cancers) and has historically been considered an “undruggable” target. It took around 40 years to develop effective KRAS inhibitors, making this a critical frontier in precision oncology. Dr Lindsay focuses on KRAS because:
- It represents a major unmet need in NSCLC treatment.
- Targeting KRAS mutations enables personalised medicine, moving beyond one-size-fits-all chemotherapy.

The international CodeBreaK 200 Phase III trial confirmed that the targeted therapy Sotorasib is more effective and better tolerated than standard chemotherapy for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer carrying the KRAS G12C mutation. Conducted across 22 countries, the trial was led in the UK by Dr Lindsay, ensuring strong national involvement in shaping global treatment standards.

Category of impact	Health and wellbeing
Impact level	Engagement