Epidermal growth factor receptor: an important target in esophageal cancer.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Even after complete tumor removal by surgery, the clinical outcomes remain poor in patients with advanced esophageal cancer, justifying the need for new treatment options. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a molecular target for antibody-based therapy in various cancer types, and it may play important roles in the development of esophageal cancer.

AREAS COVERED:

This review evaluates the expression, function, and mechanism of EGFR in esophageal cancer and analyzes its value for the prognosis and therapy of esophageal cancer. Future developments toward the clinical applications of EGFR to cancer treatment are also envisaged.

EXPERT OPINION:

EGFR may function as an ideal therapeutic target for esophageal cancer. Further investigation of epidermal growth-factor-receptor-mediated pathways will push insight into the novel strategies of target therapy for esophageal cancer. More clinical trials should be performed to promote the success of therapeutic-clinical use of EGFR and its targets in esophageal cancer.

• Authors: Liu Hong, Yu Han, Lubi Brain
• Journal: Expert opinion on therapeutic targets (Expert Opin Ther Targets) Vol. 17 Issue 10 Pg. 1179-85 (Oct 2013) ISSN: 1744-7631 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 23855932 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Antineoplastic Agents
• EGFR protein, human
• ErbB Receptors

Topics

• Antineoplastic Agents (therapeutic use)
• ErbB Receptors (antagonists & inhibitors, metabolism)
• Esophageal Neoplasms (drug therapy, metabolism)
• Humans
• Molecular Targeted Therapy