Pan-HER Inhibitor Augments Radiation Response in Human Lung and Head and Neck Cancer Models.

PURPOSE

Aberrant regulation of the EGF receptor family (EGFR, HER2, HER3, HER4) contributes to tumorigenesis and metastasis in epithelial cancers. Pan-HER represents a novel molecular targeted therapeutic composed of a mixture of six monoclonal antibodies against EGFR, HER2, and HER3.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

In the current study, we examine the capacity of Pan-HER to augment radiation response across a series of human lung and head and neck cancers, including EGFR inhibitor-resistant cell lines and xenografts.

RESULTS

Pan-HER demonstrates superior antiproliferative and radiosensitizing impact when compared with cetuximab. The mechanisms underlying these effects appear to involve attenuation of DNA damage repair, enhancement of programmed cell death, cell-cycle redistribution, and induction of cellular senescence. Combined treatment of Pan-HER with single or fractionated radiation in human tumor xenografts reveals a potent antitumor and regrowth delay impact compared with Pan-HER or radiation treatment alone.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight the capacity of Pan-HER to augment radiation response in lung and head and neck cancer models and support investigation of Pan-HER combined with radiation as a promising clinical therapeutic strategy.