Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and colorectal cancer.
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in cell growth, differentiation, and survival. Targeting EGFR in patients with colorectal cancer has become an important therapeutic tool. Recently, a monoclonal antibody against the extracellular domain of the receptor (cetuximab [Erbitux]) has been approved for the treatment of patients with EGFR-positive metastatic disease refractory to irinotecan (Camptosar)-based therapy. The role of other targeted agents against EGFR, including other monoclonal antibodies as well as inhibitors of the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain, will also be discussed.
Meyerhardt
Jeffrey A
JA
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. jmeyerhardt@partners.org
Fuchs
Charles S
CS
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D018849:Controlled Clinical Trials as Topic; D004337:Drug Carriers; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D004337:Drug Carriers; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases