Combination of radiotherapy with EGFR antagonists for head and neck carcinoma

Int J Clin Oncol. 2007 Apr;12(2):99-110. doi: 10.1007/s10147-006-0663-5. Epub 2007 Apr 27.

Abstract

The introduction of biologically sound radiation fractionation regimens and combinations of radiotherapy with chemotherapy have gradually improved both the survival of patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and the prospect of organ preservation. Long-term follow-up, however, has shown that some of the radiation-chemotherapy combinations are associated with increased late toxicity. This observation, in conjunction with advances in tumor biology, has led to the launch of investigations into molecular markers and targets for therapeutic interventions. Research on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated signaling pathway has enriched our understanding of the biology of HNSCC, in terms of carcinogenesis and cellular processes governing tumor response to therapy. The finding that the addition of an antibody-based inhibitor of the EGFR pathway to radiotherapy significantly improves locoregional control and overall survival rates in patients with locally advanced HNSCC, without increasing radiation-induced toxicity, has resulted in the growing acceptance of such combined regimens as a frontline therapy option for locally advanced HNSCC. Because such therapy has benefited only an additional 10%-15% of patients, studies are being undertaken to identify markers and mechanisms of resistance to EGFR antagonists that are essential for the further refinement of therapy. Overall, preclinical and clinical studies on EGFR have validated the concept that selective tumor radiation sensitization can be achieved by modulating a specific perturbed signaling pathway, and these studies have increased the enthusiasm for developing and investigating other novel agents targeting other cellular processes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / physiopathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / therapy*
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / drug effects
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • ErbB Receptors / metabolism
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Radiotherapy, Conformal*
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • Tumor Burden / drug effects
  • Tumor Burden / radiation effects

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • ErbB Receptors