Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a member of the ErbB family of receptors. Its stimulation by endogenous ligands, EGF or transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α) results in activation of intracellular tyrosine kinase, therefore, cell cycle progression. High levels of EGFR expression are correlated with poor prognosis and resistance to radiation therapy in a variety of cancers, mostly in squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Blocking the EGFR by a monoclonal antibody results in inhibition of the stimulation of the receptor, therefore, in inhibition of cell proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, and reduced angiogenesis, invasiveness and metastases. The EGFR is a prime target for new anticancer therapy in SCCHN, and other agents in development include small molecular tyrosine kinase inhibitors and antisense therapies. © 2006 Zimmermann et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
CITATION STYLE
Zimmermann, M., Zouhair, A., Azria, D., & Ozsahin, M. (2006, May 2). The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in head and neck cancer: Its role and treatment implications. Radiation Oncology. https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-717X-1-11
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