EGFR family signaling and its association with breast cancer development and resistance to chemotherapy (Review)
- Authors:
- Published online on: February 1, 2003 https://doi.org/10.3892/ijo.22.2.237
- Pages: 237-252
Metrics: Total
Views: 0 (Spandidos Publications: | PMC Statistics: )
Total PDF Downloads: 0 (Spandidos Publications: | PMC Statistics: )
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors (EGFRs) and signaling pathways activated by these receptors have been associated with development of breast cancer as well as its resistance to treatment with cytotoxic drugs. This review describes the current understanding of EGFRs and their downstream signaling pathways. Emphasis is placed upon Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/PDK1/Akt signaling pathways and their relationship to regulation of apoptosis and cell cycle progression. Also discussed is the relationship between these signaling pathways and response of breast cancer to chemotherapeutic treatment. An appreciation of how these signaling pathways relate to development of breast cancer and its response to chemotherapy may lead to improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease.