Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 4, 2025

Establishing Dual Resistance to EGFR-TKI and MET-TKI in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells In Vitro with a 2-step Dose-escalation Procedure
Published on: August 11, 2017
Overcoming therapy resistance in EGFR-mutant lung cancer
Antonio Passaro1, Pasi A Jänne2, Tony Mok3
1Division of Thoracic Oncology, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy. antonio.passaro@ieo.it.
Abstract:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have dramatically changed the clinical prospects of patients with non-small cell lung cancer harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-activating mutations. Despite prolonged disease control and high tumor response rates, all patients eventually progress on EGFR TKI treatment. Here, we review the mechanisms of acquired EGFR TKI resistance, the methods for monitoring its appearance, as well as current and future efforts to define treatment strategies to overcome resistance.
Insights
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) offer improved outcomes for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with EGFR mutations. However, acquired resistance to these treatments necessitates understanding resistance mechanisms and developing new strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have revolutionized treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations.
- Despite initial efficacy, acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs remains a significant clinical challenge, leading to disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms underlying acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs in NSCLC.
- To discuss methods for monitoring the emergence of TKI resistance.
- To explore current and future therapeutic strategies to overcome EGFR TKI resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on EGFR TKI resistance in NSCLC.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms driving acquired resistance.
- Evaluation of diagnostic and monitoring techniques for resistance.
- Synthesis of clinical data on treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs develops through various mechanisms, including secondary mutations in EGFR and activation of bypass signaling pathways.
- Monitoring resistance can involve liquid biopsies and advanced imaging techniques.
- Combinatorial therapies and novel drug development show promise in overcoming resistance.
Conclusions:
- Understanding acquired resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving long-term outcomes in EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients.
- Integrated monitoring and strategic treatment adjustments are essential for managing TKI resistance.
- Continued research into novel therapeutic approaches is vital to overcome acquired resistance and prolong patient survival.
More Related Videos
09:38Establishment and Characterization of Three Afatinib-resistant Lung Adenocarcinoma PC-9 Cell Lines Developed with Increasing Doses of Afatinib
Published on: June 26, 2019
08:52Profiling Sensitivity to Targeted Therapies in EGFR-Mutant NSCLC Patient-Derived Organoids
Published on: November 22, 2021
Related Concept Videos
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
Treatment Resistant Cancers
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Tumor Immunotherapy
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...