Tumor Angiogenesis and EGFR-Mutated Cancers: Structural Insights, Mutation Dynamics, and Innovative Therapeutic Strategies

INTRODUCTION: The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a central role in cancer progression, with mutations leading to constitutive activation that drives cell survival, proliferation, and metastasis. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have significantly improved survival in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients; however, resistance mechanisms continue to limit their long-term efficacy. METHODS: A comprehensive literature survey was conducted across major databases to analyze EGFR mutations, resistance mechanisms associated with different generations of TKIs, and recent advances in drug design aimed at overcoming resistance. RESULTS: First-generation TKIs, such as erlotinib and gefitinib, provide initial clinical benefit but inevitably encounter resistance. Second-generation agents, including afatinib, address some resistance pathways but remain ineffective against critical mutations. Third-generation inhibitors, like osimertinib, demonstrate improved selectivity, particularly against T790M mutations; however, emergent C797S mutations and MET amplifications compromise their effectiveness. Emerging strategies including combination therapies, allosteric inhibitors, and artificial intelligence (AI)- driven drug discovery are actively being explored to overcome these challenges. DISCUSSION: A deep understanding of the structural and mutational landscape of EGFR is essential for tackling therapeutic resistance in NSCLC. Translational research integrating AI, systems biology, and structure-guided drug design offers promise for improving treatment durability and personalizing therapy. Advances in combination strategies and predictive modeling are reshaping the management of resistant mutations, laying the groundwork for precision oncology in EGFR-mutant cancers. CONCLUSION: A focused translational approach that combines structural insights with innovative therapeutic strategies is urgently needed to achieve lasting clinical benefits in EGFR-driven cancers.