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Addressing epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in non-small cell lung cancer
1a Department of Thoracic Oncology , National Cancer Center Hospital , Tokyo , Japan.
Abstract:
Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have significantly improved the survival of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR activating mutations. However, nearly all EGFR-mutant NSCLC tumors eventually acquire resistance to the currently used EGFR-TKIs and subsequently progress clinically. Acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs is thus a huge issue in the treatment of EGFR-mutant NSCLC at present. On one hand, T790M second-site mutation has been recognized as a key mechanism of EGFR-TKI resistance, and third generation EGFR-TKIs such as osimertinib and rociletinib have been developed to overcome tumor cells harboring the T790M mutation. On the other hand, combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy is also expected as another strategy for preventing the acquired resistance to current EGFR-TKIs and prolonging the survival benefits by EGFR-TKIs. Here, we review updated strategies for preventing or overcoming acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs.
Insights
Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) improve survival in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This review covers strategies to overcome acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs, a major clinical challenge.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have advanced treatment for EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- Acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs is a significant clinical challenge, leading to tumor progression.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current strategies for preventing and overcoming acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs in NSCLC.
- To highlight the role of T790M mutations in resistance and the development of third-generation EGFR-TKIs.
- To explore combination therapies, including cytotoxic chemotherapy, as a means to enhance EGFR-TKI efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on EGFR-TKI resistance mechanisms in NSCLC.
- Analysis of clinical data on third-generation EGFR-TKIs (e.g., osimertinib).
- Evaluation of preclinical and clinical evidence for combination treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- T790M mutation is a primary mechanism of acquired resistance to first- and second-generation EGFR-TKIs.
- Third-generation EGFR-TKIs demonstrate efficacy against T790M-positive NSCLC.
- Combination therapies, particularly with chemotherapy, show promise in overcoming resistance and prolonging survival.
Conclusions:
- Acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs remains a critical issue in NSCLC management.
- Targeting T790M mutations with newer agents and employing combination strategies are key to improving patient outcomes.
- Continued research into novel therapeutic approaches is essential for durable responses in EGFR-mutant NSCLC.
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