[Targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor and applications in ORL cancer].
EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) is a transmembrane glycoprotein highly expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Once triggered by ligands, tyrosine kinase located at their inner part is phosphorylated, initiating signal transduction pathways towards the nucleus. Two categories of EGFR inhibitors are affordable: the former group includes monoclonal antibodies whereas the latter regards tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ITK). Acting more as cytostatic than cytotoxic agents, they may potentiate both chemotherapy (CT) and radiation therapy (RT). Characterized by a spectrum of toxicity that does not overlap that of CT or RT, they may be associated with these treatments. First clinical trials have demonstrated the feasibility of their administration. Side-effects merely consist of skin reactions and digestive symptoms; their intensity is generally mild and they resolve at the completion of treatment. As of yet, response rates are sometimes astounding but are still disparate. Randomized studies are ongoing. A better definition of EGFR status is warranted. Other data regarding interactions between her-family members, ligands parameters and the cascade regulation of signal transduction would certainly enable to better define the clinical applications of this new therapeutical approach.
Tortochaux
Jacques
J
Département de radiothérapie, Centre Jean-Perrin, BP 392, 63011 Clermont-Ferrand. jtortochaux@cjp.u-clermont1.fr
Aunoble
Bénédicte
B
Rolhion
Christine
C
Bourhis
Jean
J
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000068818:Cetuximab; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D000069347:Erlotinib Hydrochloride; D000077156:Gefitinib; D006801:Humans; D009025:Morpholines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D010039:Otorhinolaryngologic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D011743:Pyrimidines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011758:Pyrroles / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011799:Quinazolines / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D009025:Morpholines; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins; D011743:Pyrimidines; D011758:Pyrroles; D011799:Quinazolines; C410026:PKI 166; C420268:Canertinib; D000069347:Erlotinib Hydrochloride; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases; D000068818:Cetuximab; D000077156:Gefitinib