MDLinxA Combination of Cancer Inhibitors Shows Success in Slowing Tumor Growth

Combination Therapy Targeting EGFR and AXL Shows Promise in Suppressing Tumor Growth and Preventing Relapse

A study reveals that a combination of inhibitors targeting both EGFR and AXL proteins may offer a new therapeutic approach for patients with specific cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma. The research, published in Oncogene, delves into the complex interplay between these proteins and their role in cancer progression and resistance to treatment.

HCN Medical Memo
For physicians treating patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma or lung adenocarcinoma, this research offers a promising avenue for more effective therapies. The study underscores the potential of combination treatments targeting both EGFR and AXL or YAP, which could suppress tumor growth and prevent relapse more effectively than current monotherapies.

Key Points:

• Researchers focused on the Hippo signaling pathway and YAP protein, known to regulate tumor growth in various cancers.
• The study identifies AXL, a receptor-type tyrosine kinase, as a key player in cancer cells’ resistance to EGFR inhibitors.
• The combination of AXL and EGFR inhibitors effectively inactivates YAP, suppressing the viability of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma cells.
• Toshinori Ando, assistant professor at Hiroshima University, stated, “The combination therapy targeting both EGFR and AXL or YAP simultaneously may effectively suppress tumor growth and prevent resistance and relapse in patients with EGFR-altered cancers.”

“The combination therapy targeting both EGFR and AXL or YAP simultaneously may effectively suppress tumor growth and prevent resistance and relapse in patients with EGFR-altered cancers.”
– Toshinori Ando, Assistant Professor at the Center of Clinical Oral Examination, Hiroshima University Hospital

Additional Points:

• Previous work by the team had shown a low response rate to EGFR-targeted monotherapy, suggesting the need for combination therapies.
• Future research aims to develop effective drugs targeting EGFR, AXL, and YAP.

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