Emerging drugs for EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer

Introduction: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) represent the standard of care for patients with metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring sensitizing EGFR mutations. However, these agents are associated with inevitable treatment resistance. Newer generations of TKIs are under development that may prevent or overcome resistance and enhance intracranial activity.

Areas covered: In this review, we will discuss newer generations of EGFR TKIs for EGFR-mutated NSCLC. We will also address resistance mutations and escape pathways associated with these agents such as secondary mutations, downstream signaling, bypass pathways, phenotypic transformation, anti-apoptotic signaling, immune evasion, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, this article encompasses emerging data from combination trials with next-generation TKIs that are being pursued to delay or prevent the occurrence of resistance.

Expert opinion: The promise and challenge of precision oncology is encapsulated in the treatment of EGFR-mutated NSCLC with TKIs. Third generation TKIs have shown superior efficacy in the front-line setting and have become standard of care. A better understanding of mechanisms of treatment failure and disease relapse will be required to develop novel therapeutic strategies to further improve patient outcomes in the future.