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The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Breast Cancer

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Abstract

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)3 is a 170 kD transmembrane tyrosine kinase activated by several ligands. It is required for normal mammary development and lactation and is aberrantly expressed in approximately 40% of breast carcinomas, particularly those with a poor prognostic phenotype. Since EGF receptor levels are elevated in a high proportion of many tumor types its potential as a therapy target is being investigated using the EGF receptor to target toxins, as well as drugs that interfere with signaling and anti-receptor antibodies. These approaches are likely to be most effective when used in the adjuvant situation in combination with chemotherapy.

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  1. Department of Cellular Science, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Ox3 9DU, United Kingdom

    Stephen B. Fox & Adrian L. Harris

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Fox, S.B., Harris, A.L. The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Breast Cancer. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2, 131–141 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1026399613946

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