egfr and breast cancer

Release time ：Dec-22,2024

The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) is a protein found on the surface of cells, playing a role in the regulation of cell growth and division. In breast cancer, the overexpression of EGFR correlates with tumor progression and worsening. Abnormal activation of EGFR can stimulate the proliferation, survival, and migration of cancer cells, making targeted therapies against EGFR a significant approach in breast cancer treatment.

The mechanisms by which EGFR operates in breast cancer include several key aspects: Firstly, overexpression of EGFR can lead to persistent activation of intracellular signaling pathways, promoting the growth and survival of cancer cells. Secondly, the abnormal activation of EGFR can stimulate angiogenesis, providing the tumor with more nutrients and oxygen. Additionally, EGFR may facilitate cancer cell invasion and metastasis by modulating the degradation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Targeting EGFR in treatment can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and survival and block tumor angiogenesis and invasion, thus serving the purpose of treating breast cancer.

For patients with EGFR-positive breast cancer, common clinical treatments include small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting EGFR, such as gefitinib and erlotinib, as well as monoclonal antibodies like trastuzumab. These drugs can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and survival by blocking EGFR signaling through various mechanisms. However, it is important to note that not all EGFR-positive breast cancer patients will benefit from these treatments, as tumor cells may develop resistance by circumventing EGFR inhibition through alternative pathways. Therefore, these drugs should be selected based on individual patient conditions and their therapeutic effects and side effects closely monitored. Moreover, for EGFR-positive breast cancer patients, a combination of other treatment modalities, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, should be considered for a comprehensive treatment approach to enhance treatment efficacy and survival rates.