Epidermal growth factor receptor binding FAB. Cetuximab is composed of the Fv (variable; antigen-binding) regions of the 225 murine EGFr monoclonal antibody specific for the N-terminal portion of human EGFr with human IgG1 heavy and kappa light chain constant (framework) regions. (en)
For treatment of EGFR-expressing metastatic colorectal cancer in patients who are refractory to other irinotecan-based chemotherapy regimens. Cetuximab is also indicated for treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in conjucntion with radiation therapy. (en)
Cetuximab binds to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) on both normal and tumor cells. EGFr is over-expressed in many colorectal cancers. Cetuximab competitively inhibits the binding of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and TGF alpha, thereby reducing their effects on cell growth and metastatic spread. (en)