ABSTRACT
The epidermal growth–factor receptor (EGFR, HER1) is a member of the HER family of membrane receptors. EGFR overexpression correlates with a worse clinical outcome in several cancers including non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and tumors of the prostate, breast, stomach, colon, ovary, and head and neck, further supporting their role in tumorigenesis. Numerous classes of drugs that target the EGFR are under development, and over the last few years, an increasing number of compounds directed against the EGFR have entered clinical development and are currently in clinical trials. The EGFR is a validated anticancer target whose successful exploitation has added novel agents to our current treatment protocols. The discovery of EGFR-activating mutations, a potential predictor of efficacy for such a devastating disease as NSCLC, created a tremendous expectation from the oncology community and from the public.
