PRESS RELEASE FROM NATURE CLINICAL PRACTICE ONCOLOGY
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Cancer: Novel mutation could improve response to therapy
DOI: 10.1038/ncponc0400
A novel mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene that
could change the way that EGFR targeted therapies are given to patients with
non-small-cell lung cancer is reported in the January 2006 issue of Nature
Clinical Practice Oncology. Results from a molecular analysis of a patient's
biopsy, coupled with experimental data could help clinicians decide which
EGFR targeted treatment will be more effective for the patient.
Several reports have documented that patients with this type of lung cancer,
with mutations in the EGFR gene usually show a beneficial respond to the
agents - gefitinib or erlotinib - that target the EGFR.
In the reported case study, a patient with advanced non-small-cell lung
cancer and brain metatases who did not respond to treatment with erlotinib
showed a remarkable response to gefitinib. Analysis of the patient's tumor
cells and accompanying experimental data showed that two mutations in the
EGFR gene were present; one of these mutations occurred in a different part
of the EGFR gene than previously identified. Choong and colleagues
demonstrate that, according to molecular profiling, it is possible to obtain
a striking response with an EGFR targeted agent, even in a patient with
extensive metastases.
Understanding the molecular basis of tumors might help to predict
differential responses to EGFR targeted agents and could guide selection of
optimal therapies. Patients with meningeal brain metastases represent a
subgroup that could benefit from individualized therapy with such agents.
Author contact details:
Patrick C Ma (Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA)
Tel: +1 216 368 5698; E-mail: [email protected]
Editor contact
Lisa Hutchinson (Editor, Nature Clinical Practice Oncology)
Tel: +44 20 7843 4837; E-mail: [email protected]
The Nature Clinical Practice journals:
The first four journals launched in November 2004 and a further four in
November 2005. This is NPG's most extensive launch programme and the Nature
Clinical Practice series is due to extend to 15 titles over the next few
years. Each month the journals filter original research in their field,
highlighting the most important research articles, then explaining how the
research affects patients' treatments. Content also includes editorial and
opinion pieces, highlights from the current literature, commentaries on the
application of recent research to practical patient care, thorough reviews,
and in-depth case studies.
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