The Role of ErbB Receptors in Endometrial Cancer

Abstract

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract. Overall, about 2% to 3% of women develop EC during their lifetime [Jemal et al., 2006]. EC is a malignancy that occurs primarily in postmenopausal women. Based on clinical and pathological features, EC is classified into 2 types [Bokhman, 1983]. Type I EC, represents the majority of sporadic EC cases (70-80%), is usually well differentiated and endometrioid in histology. Type II EC, represents the minority of sporadic EC cases (10-20%), is poorly differentiated and usually papillary serous or clear cell in histology [Bokhman, 1983; Lax, 2004; Doll et al., 2008]. The Epidermal Growth Factor system (EGF system) is present in human organs and play important role in embryogenesis and postnatal development [Casalini et al., 2004; Uberall et al., 2008]. Dysregulation of the EGF signaling network is implicated in various disorders [Marmor et al., 2004; Uberall et al., 2008]. In cancer, the EGF system contributes in proliferation, transformation, angiogenesis, migration and invasion [Holbro et al., 2003].