Targeting EGFR in metastatic colorectal cancer beyond the limitations of KRAS status: Alternative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies

Francesco Caiazza, Louise Elliott, David Fennelly, Kieran Sheahan, Glen A. Doherty, Elizabeth J. Ryan

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have a very poor prognosis. Incorporation of targeted molecular therapies, such as the anti-EGFR receptor monoclonal antibodies cetuximab and panitumumab, into treatment regimens has improved outcomes for patients with wild-type RAS tumors. Yet, response rates remain low and overall survival times are short. Increased understanding of oncogenic signaling pathways within the tumor, and how these are regulated by the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, is a priority to facilitate the development of biomarkers to better guide the use of existing therapies and to develop new ones. Here, we review recent preclinical and clinical progress in the development of biomarkers for predicting response to anti-EGFR therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)363-375
Number of pages13
JournalBiomarkers in Medicine
Volume9
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Mar 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • biomarkers
  • cetuximab
  • colorectal cancer
  • EGFR
  • ErbB
  • KRAS
  • monoclonal antibodies
  • targeted therapy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Targeting EGFR in metastatic colorectal cancer beyond the limitations of KRAS status: Alternative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this