Figure 8. Schematic diagram of the proposed model depicting the functional relationship between EGFR and FASN in TKI resistance within EGFR mutant NSCLC cells.

In TKI‐resistant EGFR mutant cells, the Gefitinib‐untargetable palmitoylated EGFR positively impinges on FASN, therefore promoting tumor cell growth via the Akt pathway. Palmitoylation is a process where a 16‐carbon fatty acid palmitate, synthesized by FASN, is covalently attached to proteins. Pharmacological inhibition of FASN by Orlistat inhibits EGFR palmitoylation and restricts tumor cell survival.