Title:Nanotechnology in Anti-EGFR Treatments: Enhancing Delivery and Minimizing Toxicity in Cancer Therapy
Volume: 11
Author(s): Md Moidul Islam, Harmanjot Kaur, Harpreet kaur, Sushil Kumar Singh, Jyotibikash Kalita, Amit Kumar and Akashdeep Singh*
Affiliation:
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
Keywords:
EGFR, cancer treatment, nanotechnology, HER, monoclonal antibodies, quantum dots.
Abstract: The EGFR, a major receptor tyrosine kinase in the HER family, controls cell growth
and division via its extracellular and intracellular tyrosine kinase domains. Ligand binding and
receptor dimerization stimulate downstream pathways such as KRAS-BRAF-MEK-ERK, which
are critical for cell proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis. Dysregulation of EGFR is linked to
cancer development by encouraging uncontrolled cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and
metastases. Anti-EGFR medicines, including monoclonal antibodies (e.g., cetuximab) that prevent
ligand binding and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g., gefitinib), suppress abnormal EGFR signaling
to slow cancer growth. Their usefulness is, however, constrained by issues, such as drug
resistance, off-target effects, and limited potency in specific tumors. By using nanoparticles,
including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and quantum dots, for accurate drug administration,
decreased systemic toxicity, and circumvention of resistance mechanisms, nanotechnologybased
techniques have been developed to improve EGFR-targeted therapy. Functionalized nanoparticles
improve effectiveness and make combo treatments possible by permitting regulated
drug release and active targeting. These developments hold promise for addressing present constraints
and offering individualized treatment choices. Comprehending EGFR signaling and using
nanotechnology continue to be essential for creating more potent, focused cancer treatments.
