Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) antibodies are specialized proteins designed to target and bind to EGF or its associated receptor (EGFR), key players in cellular proliferation, differentiation, and survival. EGF, a small polypeptide, activates EGFR—a receptor tyrosine kinase—on the cell surface, triggering downstream signaling pathways like MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT. Dysregulation of EGFR signaling is linked to cancers, inflammatory diseases, and fibrosis, making it a critical therapeutic target.
EGF antibodies are categorized into monoclonal (e.g., cetuximab, panitumumab) and polyclonal types. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) block EGFR activation by preventing ligand binding or receptor dimerization, inhibiting uncontrolled cell growth. These are widely used in oncology, particularly for EGFR-overexpressing cancers (e.g., colorectal, head and neck cancers). Polyclonal antibodies, though less specific, serve as research tools for detecting EGF/EGFR in assays like ELISA or immunohistochemistry.
Therapeutic EGF antibodies face challenges, including drug resistance due to EGFR mutations or alternative pathway activation. Research continues to optimize antibody engineering (e.g., bispecific antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates) to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects. Beyond cancer, EGF antibodies are explored in dermatology (wound healing) and ophthalmology (corneal repair). Their dual role as diagnostic and therapeutic agents underscores their significance in precision medicine.