Targeting HER (ERBB) signaling in head and neck cancer: An essential update

Mol Aspects Med. 2015 Nov:45:74-86. doi: 10.1016/j.mam.2015.07.001. Epub 2015 Jul 7.

Abstract

HNC (head and neck cancer) remains the 6th most common carcinoma worldwide. The suboptimal survival and toxicities observed with conventional approaches warrant exploration of novel therapeutic strategies such as targeted therapies. Although targeting EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) with cetuximab demonstrated clinical promise, HER (human epidermal growth factor receptor) or ERBB (erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog) targeted therapy in HNC has overall been suboptimal to date in clinical settings. Overcoming the resistance as well as identifying new strategies therefore remains a significant challenge. In this review, we will discuss the emerging roles of HER members besides EGFR. A comprehensive "three-dimensional" view of HER signaling pathway from the importance of EGFR nuclear translocation to our maturing concept of receptors' "spatial regulation", as well as the interdependence and interaction among different HER members will also be addressed to complete an essential update of HER signaling in HNC.

Keywords: EGFR; ERBB; HER; SCCHN; Targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cetuximab / therapeutic use
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • ErbB Receptors / genetics*
  • ErbB Receptors / metabolism
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / genetics
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy*
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • EGFR protein, human
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Cetuximab