Targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Colorectal Cancer

A crucial goal in the refinement of systemic cancer therapy is the achievement of high efficacy while minimising side effects. Conventional anticancer drugs target malignant cells to an extent, but are often associated with dose-limiting toxicity. One solution is to improve the specificity of the therapeutic agent based upon knowledge of a specific target. As our understanding of the molecular basis of cancer steadily progresses, the opportunities for the development of such improved treatments rise commensurately. The design of modern drug therapies is informed by the genetic and biochemical mechanisms responsible for the behaviour of malignant cells. One such endeavour includes the development of targeted drugs against the type I transmembrane kinase receptor epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Following a brief outline of EGFR cancer biology, this article will provide an up-to-date synopsis of clinical research efforts attempting to exploit this receptor system in the setting of advanced colorectal cancer.