Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition in cancer therapy: biology, rationale and preliminary clinical results.
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a growth factor receptor involved in the regulation of cellular differentiation and proliferation, is highly expressed by many tumor cells. In light of a relationship between overexpression of EGFR and clinically aggressive malignant disease, EGFR has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy. In recent years, several molecular strategies have been explored to modulate either the EGFR itself, or the downstream signal beyond the cell surface receptor. One of the most promising current strategies involves the use of anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), either alone or in combination with conventional cytotoxic modalities such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. This review focuses primarily on recent progress in the development of anti-EGFR mAbs, and examines their potential in the treatment of cancer.
Huang
S M
SM
Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center, Madison 53792, USA.
Harari
P M
PM
D000818:Animals; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D006801:Humans; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis / Q000517:prevention & control; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000517:prevention & control; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000187:drug effects
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D066246:ErbB Receptors