Abstract: To investigate the expression of cMet, cErbb2 and EGFR in 12 chordomas, based on the current and future availability of targeted molecular inhibitors. Method: Protein expression levels were analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis from 12 chordomas and 51 other tumors from 17 assorted solid tissue tumor types using multitumored tissue microarray. Results: Most chordomas displayed strong expression of EGFR and cMet, while a variable level of expression of HER2/neu was observed. In addition, we noted a strong correlation between EGFR and cMet expression, especially for primary chordomas (P=0.006). Conclusions: Chordoma, like many other solidtissue tumors, expresses HER2/neu, EGFR and cMet. Most chordoma has strong expression of both cMet and EGFR. Inhibitors to EGFR are already in clinical use for other solid tissue tumors and represent a potentially viable experimental treatment option for refractory chordoma.

Key words: Receptor tyrosine kinase, Targeted therapy, Chordoma, Immunohistochemistry