Biological principles and clinical application of EGFR inhibitors in cancer

Abstract

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been studied for over 40 years. The biological function of this receptor and its oncogenic activity make it an ideal target for treatment of human cancers. In recent years, several agents targeting EGFR have been developed and used in the clinic. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the biological characteristics of EGFR, its relationship with human cancer, and the development of EGFR inhibitors in clinical use. Using EGFR as an example, this review also intends to provide insight into current advances in molecular oncology and molecular therapeutics and their future directions.