FGFR-targeted therapy in head and neck carcinomas

Abstract

Background: Genomic aberrations (mutations, gene fusions, amplifications) and dysregulation of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor (FGFR) signaling pathway are frequently found in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCCs). Targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) or monoclonal antibodies directed against FGF receptors therefore represents a promising approach for the treatment of HNSCC. Objective: This review article describes the current status of FGFR-directed therapies for head and neck tumors (especially HNSCC) and, in this context, discusses genomic alterations of the FGFR pathway as potential companion predictive biomarkers. Methods: This article is based on searches of PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and conference proceedings. Results: First results prove the efficacy of TKIs both in HNSCC and in adenocarcinomas of the head and neck, especially in thyroid and adenocystic salivary gland carcinomas. Conclusion: Early clinical and preclinical data point to the promise of biomarker-directed treatment of patients with head and neck tumors using FGFR-targeted TKIs.