New from NCP
11 January 2006
Cancer: Novel mutation could improve response to therapy
A novel mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene that could change the way that EGFR targeted therapies are given to patients with non-small-cell lung cancer is reported in the January 2006 issue of Nature Clinical Practice Oncology. Results from a molecular analysis of a patient's biopsy, coupled with experimental data could help clinicians decide which EGFR targeted treatment will be more effective for the patient.
Several reports have documented that patients with this type of lung cancer, with mutations in the EGFR gene usually show a beneficial respond to the agents – gefitinib or erlotinib – that target the EGFR.
In the reported case study, a patient with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer and brain metatases who did not respond to treatment with erlotinib showed a remarkable response to gefitinib. Analysis of the patient's tumor cells and accompanying experimental data showed that two mutations in the EGFR gene were present; one of these mutations occurred in a different part of the EGFR gene than previously identified. Choong and colleagues demonstrate that, according to molecular profiling, it is possible to obtain a striking response with an EGFR targeted agent, even in a patient with extensive metastases.
Understanding the molecular basis of tumors might help to predict differential responses to EGFR targeted agents and could guide selection of optimal therapies. Patients with meningeal brain metastases represent a subgroup that could benefit from individualized therapy with such agents.
Author contact details:
Patrick C Ma (Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA)
Tel: +1 216 368 5698; Email: patrick.ma@case.edu
Editor contact
Lisa Hutchinson, (Editor, Nature Clinical Practice Oncology)
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7843 4837; E-mail: l.hutchinson@nature.com
The Nature Clinical Practice journals:
The first four journals launched in November 2004 and a further four in November 2005. This is NPG's most extensive launch programme and the Nature Clinical Practice series is due to extend to 15 titles over the next few years.
Each month the journals filter original research in their field, highlighting the most important research articles, then explaining how the research affects patients' treatments. Content also includes editorial and opinion pieces, highlights from the current literature, commentaries on the application of recent research to practical patient care, thorough reviews, and in-depth case studies.
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Nature Publishing Group (NPG) is a division of Macmillan Publishers Ltd, dedicated to serving the academic and professional scientific community. NPG's flagship title, Nature, is the world's most highly-cited weekly multidisciplinary journal and was first published in 1869. Other publications include Nature research journals, Nature Reviews, Nature Clinical Practice, and a range of prestigious academic journals, including society-owned publications.
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