Systems Theory in Oncology: A Narrative Review of an Integrative Framework for Understanding Cancer Complexity

The Systems Theory provides a valuable conceptual framework for analyzing biological complexity, particularly in oncology, where the multiple interactions between biological subsystems can influence tumor initiation, progression, and treatment response. This approach facilitates the integration of data derived from genomics, metabolomics, routine medical analyses, and the clinical examination of the patient, thus overcoming the limitations of the reductionist model. By applying the principles of living systems, new tumor vulnerabilities can be identified, as well as models of cellular, metabolic, and informational organization. The use of systems theory in oncology may contribute to the development of personalized and precision medicine, improving diagnostic and prognostic methods, and enhancing the efficiency of personalized therapies with the aim of improving therapeutic outcomes and the patient’s quality of life.