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Precision Cancer Treatment: The Promise of EGFR Targeted Therapy

NextEdge Admin

30 Dec 2023

3 min 11 sec

EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) targeted therapy refers to a type of cancer treatment that specifically targets the EGFR protein, which is often overexpressed or mutated in certain types of cancer cells. EGFR is a cell surface receptor that plays a role in cell growth and division.

There are two main types of EGFR-targeted therapies: monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

1. Monoclonal Antibodies:

– Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced molecules designed to mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens.

– Drugs like cetuximab and panitumumab are examples of monoclonal antibodies that target EGFR.

– These antibodies attach to the EGFR on the surface of cancer cells, preventing the receptor from binding to growth factors and signaling for cell proliferation.

2. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs):

– Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that play a crucial role in signal transduction pathways, including those involved in cell growth.

– EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as erlotinib, gefitinib, and afatinib, block the activity of the tyrosine kinase domain of the EGFR.

– By inhibiting this enzymatic activity, these drugs interfere with the signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth.

EGFR-targeted therapies are primarily used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and head and neck cancer. The effectiveness of these therapies depends on the specific characteristics of the cancer, including the presence of EGFR mutations or overexpression.

It’s important to note that while EGFR-targeted therapies can be effective, not all patients respond equally, and resistance can develop over time. Additionally, these therapies may have side effects, and their use is often guided by molecular testing of the tumor to identify specific mutations or alterations that make the cancer cells susceptible to these treatments.

As with any medical treatment, decisions about EGFR-targeted therapy should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals based on individual patient circumstances and the specific characteristics of the cancer.