HER3 Genomic Gain and Sensitivity to Gefitinib in Lung Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Cappuzzo F, Toschi L, Domenichini I, Bartolini S, Ceresoli G L, Rossi E, Ludovini V, Cancellieri A, Magrini E, Bemis L, Franklin W A, Crino L, Bunn P A Jr, Hirsch F R, Varella-Garcia M
Primary Institution: University of Colorado Cancer Center
Hypothesis
Increased copy number of the HER3 gene could enhance gefitinib sensitivity in EGFR+ patients.
Conclusion
Increased copy number of the HER3 gene does not significantly enhance gefitinib sensitivity in EGFR+ NSCLC patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with HER3+ tumours had a significantly longer time to progression than patients with HER3− tumours.
- HER3 FISH+ pattern was significantly associated with female gender and never smoking history.
- Patients with EGFR+/HER3+ tumours had higher objective response rates and longer time to progression than patients with EGFR− and/or HER3− tumours.
Takeaway
This study looked at how a gene called HER3 affects the response to a cancer drug called gefitinib in lung cancer patients. It found that having more copies of the HER3 gene doesn't really help patients respond better to the drug.
Methodology
The study analyzed HER3 status by FISH in 82 NSCLC patients treated with gefitinib, previously evaluated for EGFR and HER2 status.
Limitations
The study may not have been powered enough to detect a potential benefit for patients with increased copy number of the HER3 gene.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included 82 patients with advanced NSCLC, with significant associations found for female gender and never smoking history.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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