EGF-R and Her2/neu overexpressing tumors: independent collectives for treatment of breast cancer by specific monoclonal antibody-therapy.

Purpose: In our recent studies, we demonstrated that breast cancer treatment by anti-EGF-R antibody resulted in a significant therapeutic effect in vivo. Furthermore, we were able to elucidate histopathologic parameters with an impact on therapy success. The aim of this study was the evaluation of EGF-R and Her2/neu protein expression on a large series of primary breast cancer, to elucidate if anti-EGF-R antibody therapy is a new therapeutic option for patients who are Her2/neu negative and where, therefore, anti-Her2/neu antibody treatment is not applicable.

Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor-antibody therapy for treatment of breast cancer.

Recent studies demonstrated that tumors overexpressing the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R, erbB-1) are associated with poor clinical outcome. This led to the development of a variety of monoclonal antibodies targeting the extracellular domain of this receptor tyrosine kinase. The aim of our study was the evaluation of anti-EGF-R antibody EMD 55900 therapy for treatment of breast cancer.