Afatinib.
Helga Wecker1, Cornelius F Waller2
1Department of Haematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Centre Freiburg, and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
Summary
Afatinib is an irreversible ErbB family blocker approved for advanced EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer. Ongoing research explores its use in other cancers like HNSCC and breast cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Afatinib is an irreversible ErbB family blocker targeting tyrosine kinases.
- It functions by inhibiting signaling pathways crucial for cancer cell growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the role of afatinib in cancer treatment.
- To highlight its approved indication and ongoing investigations.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trial data and regulatory approvals.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical studies for afatinib's efficacy.
Main Results:
- Afatinib received FDA and EMA approval in 2013 for advanced EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer.
- Investigational studies are exploring its potential in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and breast cancer.
Conclusions:
- Afatinib is a validated therapeutic agent for specific non-small-cell lung cancer cases.
- Further research may expand its application to other solid tumors.