Nimotuzumab treatment of malignant gliomas

In spite of new alkylating medication and recently accumulated knowledge about genomics, the prognosis of malignant gliomas remains poor. The introduction of single substances interfering with tumour proliferation dynamics has been disappointing and the lessons learned indicate that a complicated network of proliferation needs time consuming, in-depth analysis in order to more specifically treat now distinguishable subgroups of a disease, which too long was thought of as a uniform entity.

The clinical trials using the EGFR antibody nimotuzumab in the treatment of malignant gliomas are reviewed. Pending conformation in future studies the antibody might be part of the treatment of MGMT-negative, EGFR-amplified, not completely resected gliomas of adulthood and juvenile DIPG (pontine gliomas). Upcoming genomic results of the different tumour entities may suggest certain combination partners of the antibody. Recent studies of nimotuzumab indicate the reason for the lack of toxicity, which is the most attractive argument for its clinical use besides modest efficacy.

We await the final results on the use of the antibody together with vinorelbine and radiation therapy for the therapy of DIPG. Adult patients with MGMT-negative, EGFR amplified, not totally resected GBM may also profit from this combination therapy. TK-inhibitors combined with the antibody and irradiation may be an option for a therapeutic trial in paediatric patients.