Different responses of colorectal cancer cells to alternative sequences of cetuximab and oxaliplatin.

Therapeutic protocols including EGFR antibodies in the context of oxaliplatin-based regimens have variable clinical effect in colorectal cancer. Here, we tested the effect of the EGFR antibody cetuximab in different sequential combinations with oxaliplatin on the growth of colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Cetuximab reduced the efficacy of oxaliplatin when administered before oxaliplatin but provided additive effect when administered after oxaliplatin regardless of the KRAS or BRAF mutation status of the cells.

EGFR targeting drugs in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Importance Of The Field: Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. Despite intense efforts to improve different treatment modalities, mortality rates in advanced cases remain high.

Areas Covered In The Review: EGFR targeting mAb cetuximab (Erbitux) has been approved for the treatment of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in combination with radiotherapy and for recurrent or metastatic HNSCC.