[Anti-EGFR and radiotherapy].
EGF-receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane protein, which was implicated in the progression of many epithelial cancer types. Its activation induce some transduction pathways inside the cell, and contribute to many cellular processes as cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis and angiogenesis. Monoclonal antibodies directed against EGFR or small molecules inhibiting its tyrosine-kinase function could block all these pathways. By modulating these cellular functions, these molecules enhance the antitumor activity of ionizing radiation. Several mechanisms have been discussed (alteration od DNA damage repair, facilitation of apoptosis, inhibition of tumour repopulation) and justify the current clinical trials combining these drugs and radiotherapy.
Milano
G
G
Laboratoire d'oncopharmacologie, centre Antoine-Lacassagne, 33, avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice 2, France. gerard.milano@nice.fnclcc.fr
Magné
N
N
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy*
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D066246:ErbB Receptors