Monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma: A literature review

Abstract

Background Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a relatively common and heterogenous malignancy of different organs, such as the skin, esophagus, and lungs. Although most cases experience good survival with surgical methods, management of advanced types of the disease remains challenging. Several modalities, including different chemotherapy regimens and immunotherapies, have been investigated in this matter, among which Monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) are one of the most promising ones. Since the development of Mabs, they have been widely used to treat different diseases. Mabs have shown significant efficacy with high specificity along with acceptable safety, which makes them a favorable option in cancer therapy. In this article, we aimed to review the different aspects of using Mabs in SCC therapy. Recent Findings We found that treating with different Mabs has shown excellent efficacy accompanied by acceptable safety in treating SCC of different organs. Therefore, Mabs are considered great options in the treatment of SCC, especially in advanced cases. Overall, two highly potent types of Mabs in SCC therapy are anti‐EGFR Mabs and checkpoint inhibitors, especially Cetuximab, Nimotuzumab, and PD‐1 inhibitors. Bevacizumab is also a promising option as adjuvant therapy to other modalities. Conclusion Although some Mabs have shown promising outcomes in SCC therapy, their application as a part of cancer treatment depends on further investigations regarding cost‐effectiveness and predictors of response. FDA has approved several Mabs in SCC therapies, and Mabs may have a crucial role in this era in the near future, especially in treating head and neck and esophageal SCC and metastatic lung cancer.

Navigating a Complex Intersection: Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy Synergy in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin—A Comprehensive Literature Review

“…Therefore, Mabs are considered excellent options for treating SCC, especially for the advanced stages of the disease. Overall, two highly potent types of Mabs in SCC therapy are anti-EGFR Mabs and checkpoint inhibitors, especially cetuximab, nimotuzumab, and PD-1 inhibitors [66]. Precisely because there are several options, it is extremely important to thoroughly test the tumors at the beginning of the treatment, to make sure that the line proposed to the patient is the most suitable for his particularities.…”

Cetuximab chemotherapy resistance: Insight into the homeostatic evolution of head and neck cancer (Review)

“…EGFR is an RTK that has an important role in cell physiology by regulating several signaling cascades involved in critical cellular functions such as proliferation, differentiation, survival and motility. However, when EGFR is mutated or overexpressed, it can trigger a neoplastic process ( 81 ).…”

“…CTX also activates proinflammatory and proapoptotic factors and inhibits repair of radiation-induced lesions, increasing the efficacy of strategies that combine EGFR-targeted agents and immune- or radiotherapy. CTX blocks invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, which are protumorigenic roles of several signaling pathways associated with EGFR ( 81 , 107 ). By contrast, activating mutations in members of the RAS pathway may reduce the efficacy of CTX, leading to an improper ERK response and changes in transcription, cell fates and proliferation ( 108 ).…”

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Family and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

“…These studies have shown improved progression-free survival, overall survival, and objective response rates when bevacizumab is combined with standard chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Notably, the benefits may vary depending on patient selection, treatment regimen, and tumor characteristics (45).…”