Tumor heterogeneity: Evolution through space and time in EGFR mutant non small cell lung cancer patients

Margarita Majem, Jordi Remon

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

36 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

NSCLC patients with mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene have dramatic responses with the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in the majority of patients. However, all patients will eventually present progression of disease because of both primary and acquired resistance to EGFR TKI. In the recent years several studies have identified mechanisms involved in primary and secondary resistance to EGFR TKI treatment that can also be potential therapeutic strategies, although up to 30% of cases of acquired resistance to EGFR TKI are still unexplained. In this review we describe the mechanisms of resistance to EGFR TKIs in NSCLC patients that have been discovered and potential therapeutic strategies to overcome EGFR TKI resistance. Additionally we highlight the importance of performing additional biopsies not only at time of acquired resistance to EGFR TKI but also immediately after initiation of therapy to discover the remaining unknown mechanisms of acquired resistance to EGFR TKI as well as the underlying molecular basis of the heterogeneity in response to EGFR TKI.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)226-237
Number of pages12
JournalTranslational Lung Cancer Research
Volume2
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Acquired resistance
  • Epidermal growth factor receptor
  • Non-small cell lung cancer
  • Primary resistance

Cite this