Targeting hypoxia in the treatment of small cell lung cancer

Highlights • Hypoxia is prevalent in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) tumours and leads to cellular adaptations associated with aggressive tumours. • Many methods of targeting hypoxia for cancer therapy have been explored; however, this treatment remains relatively under-investigated for SCLC. • This review highlights various treatment options available for targeting hypoxic cells within tumours and how these could be highly beneficial in the treatment of SCLC. • Treatment options include the use of bioreductive prodrugs as well as inhibiting pH-regulating enzymes upregulated under hypoxic conditions.