HER2/neu

HER2/neu[edit | edit source]

HER2/neu is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ERBB2 gene. It is also known as CD340 (cluster of differentiation 340), proto-oncogene Neu, Erbb2 (avian erythroblastic leukemia viral (v-erb-b2) oncogene homolog 2), or ERBB2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2).

Function[edit | edit source]

HER2/neu is a member of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER/EGFR/ERBB) family. Amplification or over-expression of this oncogene has been shown to play an important role in the development and progression of certain aggressive types of breast cancer. In recent years the protein has become an important biomarker and target of therapy for approximately 30% of breast cancer patients.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

HER2/neu has been shown to be amplified in other tumor types, including ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and lung cancer. The presence of higher than normal levels of HER2/neu is associated with a poorer prognosis in these cancers.

HER2/neu testing[edit | edit source]

HER2/neu testing is a laboratory test that measures the amount of HER2/neu protein on the surface of cancer cells or the HER2/neu gene inside the cell. It's used to help decide treatment options for people with breast cancer.

HER2/neu targeted therapies[edit | edit source]

Several therapies are available that target HER2/neu, including trastuzumab (Herceptin), pertuzumab (Perjeta), ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla), and lapatinib (Tykerb).

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

National Cancer Institute - HER2/neu

HER2/neu Resources
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