EGFR ELISA Kit, Human

BACKGROUND The c-erbB family of receptors includes four distinct receptors, namely c-erb B1 (EGF receptor), 2, 3 and 4 (HER1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively). The epidermal growth factor (EGF) and related peptides bind the ErbB receptors, inducing the formation of different homo- and heterodimers. Receptor dimerization promotes activation of the intrinsic kinase, leading to phosphorylation of specific tyrosines located in the ErbB's cytoplasmic region. These phosphorylated residues serve as docking sites for a variety of signaling molecules whose recruitment stimulates intracellular signaling cascades, which ultimately control diverse genetic programs.¹ In contrast to other receptor tyrosine kinases, the kinase domain of EGFR (ERBB1) does not require phosphorylation for activation. Consequently, the overall activation state of the receptor is controlled by constant balancing of activity favoring and activity suppressing actions within the receptor molecule. Influences of the membrane microenvironment and context dependent interactions with varying sets of signaling partners are superimposed on this system of intramolecular checks and balances.²

It was shown that EGFR overexpression and mutations occurred in many tumors. The EGFR is known to be involved in carcinogenetic processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, cell motility, and metastasis. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that targeting EGFR is a valid method for anticancer therapy.³ Strategies aimed at inhibiting the EGFR pathway included different classes of compounds, with monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors being the most widely-investigated agents in cancer therapy.

 

REFERENCES  

1. Holbro, T. & Hynes, N. E.: Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol. 44:195, 2004.
2. Warren, C.M. & Landgraf, R. : Cell Signal 18:923, 2006.
3. Arteaga, C. L. : Semin Oncol. 29(5 Suppl 14):3, 2002. 
 

 

ELISA Kits are based on standard sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technology. Freshly prepared standards, samples, and solutions are recommended for best results.