Cetuximab needs to be tested for high expression of the proto-oncogene in tumor cells, and if the tumor has a variant of this gene, the drug can control the tumor.
Cetuximab is a commonly used targeted drug in clinic, which can specifically bind to the epidermal growth factor receptor EGFR, block its binding to endogenous ligands, inhibit signaling, and achieve the purpose of controlling cell proliferation, migration, invasion and other life activities. The downstream ligands of epidermal growth factor receptor are mainly protein products of proto-oncogene RAS.
For tumors such as colorectal cancer, before using cetuximab treatment, it is necessary to test whether the tumor proto-oncogene RAS is expressed, and the drug may be effective only if the proto-oncogene RAS expresses protein products.
However, it should be noted that cetuximab is contraindicated for those who are allergic to the components of cetuximab; co-administration with 5-fluorouracil will increase the probability of myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure and other diseases, and the use of vital signs should be strictly monitored.
The drug needs to be used under the guidance of clinicians, and unauthorized use is prohibited.