Targeting the EGFR signalling pathway in metastatic colorectal cancer

Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2024 Jul;9(7):664-676. doi: 10.1016/S2468-1253(23)00479-X. Epub 2024 Apr 30.

Abstract

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its activated downstream signalling pathways play a crucial role in colorectal cancer development and progression. After four decades of preclinical, translational, and clinical research, it has been shown that blocking the EGFR signalling pathway at different molecular levels represents a fundamental therapeutic strategy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Nevertheless, the efficacy of molecularly targeted therapies is inescapably limited by the insurgence of mechanisms of acquired cancer cell resistance. Thus, in the era of precision medicine, a deeper understanding of the complex molecular landscape of metastatic colorectal cancer is required to deliver the best treatment choices to all patients. Major efforts are currently ongoing to improve patient selection, improve the efficacy of available treatments targeting the EGFR pathway, and develop novel combination strategies to overcome therapy resistance within the continuum of care of metastatic colorectal cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
  • ErbB Receptors* / antagonists & inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy* / methods
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors
  • Antineoplastic Agents