Implications of EGFR PharmDx™ Kit for cetuximab eligibility

摘要

EGF receptor (EGFR) represents an attractive target for anticancer therapies in a variety ofnmalignant neoplasms, including colorectal, non-small-cell lung, head and neck carcinomas andngliomas. Monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab, are directed against the extracellularnEGFR domain, whereas small molecules are targeting the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain.nParticularly for application of drugs against extracellular EGFR parts, knowledge about EGFRnlevels within the cell membrane is of high import, because only EGFR-depending tumorsnrespond to these therapeutic approaches. Immunohistochemical investigation of tissue slidesnof the primary tumor are performed to screen for EGFR occurrence in tumor cells. Since 2004,nthe combination of ‘EGFR PharmDxTM kit’, a diagnostic test for EGFR, and subsequentnapplication of cetuximab in EGFR-positive colon carcinomas has been approved by the US FDA.nIt represents the second approved combination of diagnostic tools and dependent applicationnof monoclonal antibody therapies after the successful HercepTestTM/HerceptinTM for breastncarcinomas. This proceeding represents an important step toward a personalized cancerntherapy with major advantages for patients, mainly reduction of toxic side effects andndramatically increased efficiency.