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Updated: May 21, 2026
Therapy Testing in a Spheroid-based 3D Cell Culture Model for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 20, 2018
Molecular-targeted therapies in head and neck cancer
Shyam D Rao1, Matthew G Fury, David G Pfister
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA. raos1@mskcc.org
Abstract:
The increasing understanding of tumor biology has opened the door to a new class of biological agents directed at specific molecular targets in the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. These targeted agents present the opportunity to more effectively attack the crucial cellular pathways contributing to tumor growth and survival, while minimizing toxicity. Cetuximab, which targets epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor signaling, was the first such biological agent to be proven effective in head and neck squamous cell cancers. Currently, there are dozens of targeted agents at various stages of testing for use in the treatment of head and neck cancers. In this article, we review strategies aimed at key pathways, including EGF receptor signaling, the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) pathway, and PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin activation.
Insights
Targeted therapies are revolutionizing head and neck cancer treatment by attacking specific molecular pathways. These agents, like cetuximab targeting epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, offer improved efficacy and reduced toxicity for squamous cell carcinomas.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Advances in tumor biology have led to targeted therapies for head and neck cancers.
- Targeted agents aim to disrupt critical cancer growth pathways with reduced toxicity.
- Cetuximab, an epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor inhibitor, is a key example.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current targeted therapy strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinomas.
- To highlight key molecular pathways being targeted in treatment.
- To discuss the potential of novel biological agents.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on targeted agents in head and neck cancer.
- Analysis of key signaling pathways involved in tumor growth and survival.
- Discussion of specific targeted agents and their mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Targeted agents offer a more precise approach to cancer treatment.
- Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor signaling is a validated target.
- Other key pathways under investigation include VEGF and PI3K/AKT/mTOR.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in treating head and neck squamous cell carcinomas.
- Further research and development of targeted agents are ongoing.
- These strategies hold promise for improved patient outcomes.
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