a new era in treating cancer by combining drugs that interfere with the biochemical pathways that fuel the disease.

``To make the biggest difference, we need to make targeted cocktails'' of different drugs,

as scientists seek to lessen or eliminate use of harsh chemotherapy,

Traditional chemotherapy treatments use toxic chemicals that kill cancer cells or affect their ability to grow and divide. Because the treatment affects the whole body, normal cells can be harmed and side effects can include infections, hair loss, anemia and fatigue. Some types of chemotherapy can cause damage to the heart or kidneys.

``If you can replace chemo, that would be a dream come true,'' s

Targeted drugs aren't free of side effects. Erbitux, New York-based ImClone Systems Inc.'s treatment for colon and head and neck cancer, can cause a severe skin rash. Herceptin raises the risk of heart failure. Sutent and Avastin may trigger bleeding in lung cancer patients.

which combinations of targeted therapies are safe.