Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibodies in cancer therapy

AUTOR(ES)

Martinelli, E

FONTE

Blackwell Science Inc

RESUMO

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor involved in the proliferation and survival of cancer cells. EGFR is the first molecular target against which monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have been developed for cancer therapy. Here we review the mechanisms underlying the effects of EGFR-specific mAb in cancer therapy. The efficacy of EGFR-specific mAb in cancer occurs thanks to inhibition of EGFR-generated signalling; furthermore, the effects of antibodies on the immune system seem to play an important role in determining the overall anti-tumour response. In this review, attention is focused on cetuximab and panitumumab, two mAb introduced recently into clinical practice for treatment of metastatic colorectal and head and neck cancer which target the external part of EGFR.

Documentos Relacionados

• Apoptosis induced by an anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody in a human colorectal carcinoma cell line and its delay by insulin.
• Monoclonal antibodies against receptor for epidermal growth factor induce early and delayed effects of epidermal growth factor.
• Growth stimulation of A431 cells by epidermal growth factor: identification of high-affinity receptors for epidermal growth factor by an anti-receptor monoclonal antibody.
• Monoclonal antibodies against epidermal growth factor receptor induce prolactin synthesis in cultured rat pituitary cells (GH3).
• Inhibition of human tumor growth in nude mice by a conjugate of doxorubicin with monoclonal antibodies to epidermal growth factor receptor.