Foreword

Article Outline

• Copyright

Human epidermal growth factor receptors 1 and 2 (EGFR and HER2, respectively), both members of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/HER) family, are validated cancer targets. Small-molecule and antibody inhibitors to these receptors improve survival of patients with lung, breast, head and neck, and colorectal carcinoma. Second-generation small molecules, which irreversibly bind to receptors within the HER family as well as additional kinases, and conjugated antibodies are under evaluation in a variety of tumor settings as single agents, and in combination with standard and targeted cancer therapies. Much has been learned about the biology of EGFR in human cancer. Markers of sensitivity and resistance have been identified through clinical and translational studies. This review highlights recent results from clinical trials and biomarker studies for EGFR inhibitors and provides directions for future research.