BIBW 2992 in non-small cell lung cancer
Deepa S Subramaniam1, Jimmy Hwang
1Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington DC 20007, USA. dss26@gunet.georgetown.edu
Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
|February 16, 2011
Summary
Novel irreversible dual inhibitors like BIBW 2992 show promise in overcoming acquired resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in lung cancer treatment. Further research is needed to assess their efficacy against primary resistance and delaying acquired resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeting is a crucial strategy for lung cancer treatment.
- Acquired resistance to reversible EGFR inhibitors is a significant clinical challenge.
- Development of novel agents is essential to overcome treatment resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of EGFR targeting in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- To review mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance to reversible EGFR inhibitors.
- To evaluate strategies for overcoming resistance, including the efficacy of BIBW 2992.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical and clinical data for BIBW 2992 in advanced solid tumors, specifically NSCLC.
- Examination of resistance mechanisms to EGFR inhibitors.
- Analysis of therapeutic strategies against EGFR-targeted agents.
Main Results:
- Irreversible dual inhibitors of EGFR-HER2, such as BIBW 2992, represent a promising therapeutic avenue.
- BIBW 2992 demonstrates potential in overcoming acquired resistance to existing EGFR inhibitors (erlotinib, gefitinib).
Conclusions:
- BIBW 2992 offers a potential strategy to overcome acquired resistance in lung cancer patients treated with reversible EGFR inhibitors.
- Further investigation is required to determine if BIBW 2992 can overcome primary resistance or delay the development of acquired resistance in NSCLC.
