2011 Free to Breathe Young Investigator Research Grant
Trever Bivona, MD, PhD
University of California, San Francisco
Research Project:
AXL and Erlontinib Resistance
Summary:
Approximately 20% of non-small cell lung cancers have mutations in a gene called EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor). While a drug called erlotinib (Tarceva®) appears especially effective in controlling these tumors, most tumors become resistant to the effects of the drug over time. These patients’ drug resistance can be promoted by the activation of a gene called AXL, so Dr. Bivona’s research seeks to understand how AXL promotes erlotinib resistance. This project could lead to clinical trials that determine whether drugs that block AXL can improve erlotinib¹s effectiveness, helping patients on the drug live longer.