Exploring the Putative Role of EGFR in Prostate Cancer: Interactions with Androgen and Estrogen Receptors.

Abstract

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor that plays a critical role in regulating cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Aberrant activation or overexpression of EGFR has been observed in several cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa), and is associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. The development and progression of PCa largely depend on the involvement of androgen receptor (AR) pathways, which are directly related to EGFR signaling. Research indicates that EGFR can affect AR activity, increasing transcriptional activity or promoting ligand-independent activation, which may lead to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that estrogen receptors (ERs) may also interact with EGFR signaling in prostate tissue. These may influence tumor growth, interactions with cellular plasticity, and therapy resistance, but their exact mechanisms require further investigation. Identifying and improving treatment strategies for advanced and treatment-resistant PCa requires understanding the interplay between the EGFR, AR, and ER pathways. However, clinical trials have shown limited success in targeting EGFR alone, possibly through compensatory mechanisms via steroid hormone receptors. Therefore, therapies that simultaneously target EGFR and AR/ER activity may be more effective. Continued research into the molecular interplay between these pathways will broaden our understanding of prostate cancer biology and support the development of more personalized and effective treatments. In this review will focus on EGFR/HER1 and its putative role in prostate cancer. Furthermore, we discuss the potential interaction between EGFR, androgen receptor (AR), and estrogen receptor (ER) signaling pathways.