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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
Validated Immunochemical Assay for Comprehensive Determination of the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Released from and Bound to Cells
Published on: May 9, 2025
EGFR/HER2 in breast cancer: a biological approach for molecular diagnosis and therapy
Fernanda Milanezi1, Silvia Carvalho, Fernando C Schmitt
1Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal. mmilanezi@ipatimup.pt
Abstract:
Novel cancer therapies have focused on specific molecular markers present in malignant tumors. The rationale of targeted therapy relies on the knowledge of molecular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis and their influence in clinical outcome allied to a more specific and less toxic treatment. Activation of EGF receptor and HER2 is an important factor for initiation and progression of malignancies, including breast cancer where the status of HER2 is an essential step in the diagnostic workup; EGFR overexpression has been associated to the so-called basal-like breast carcinomas, which opens a new avenue for diagnosis and therapeutic approach in these tumors. This review will focus on mechanisms of HER2 and EGF receptor upregulation, the targeted therapies that are currently in use for these receptors, possible combined therapies, as well as the approach for molecular diagnosis from the pathologist's point of view.
Insights
Targeted cancer therapies leverage molecular markers like the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2). Understanding their role in carcinogenesis guides diagnosis and treatment, especially in breast cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Targeted cancer therapies utilize specific molecular markers for more precise and less toxic treatments.
- Activation of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2) drives cancer initiation and progression.
- HER2 status is critical in breast cancer diagnostics, while EGFR overexpression is linked to basal-like breast carcinomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of HER2 and EGFR upregulation in cancer.
- To discuss current targeted therapies for these receptors.
- To explore potential combined therapies and molecular diagnostic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis.
- Analysis of targeted therapies for EGFR and HER2.
- Examination of diagnostic strategies from a pathologist's perspective.
Main Results:
- EGFR and HER2 activation are key oncogenic drivers.
- Targeted therapies against EGFR and HER2 are established treatment modalities.
- Combined therapies and advanced molecular diagnostics offer new avenues.
Conclusions:
- Understanding HER2 and EGFR pathways is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments.
- Targeted therapies and molecular diagnostics are transforming breast cancer management.
- Future research should focus on optimizing combined therapeutic strategies and diagnostic tools.
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