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Targeting the HER2 pathway for the therapy of lower esophageal and gastric adenocarcinoma

Antarpreet Kaur1, Constantin A Dasanu

  • 1University of Connecticut Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA. ankaur@resident.uchc.edu

Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|October 5, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

HER2 receptor overexpression is crucial in gastric and esophageal cancers. Current treatments include trastuzumab, with new agents like lapatinib and others in development offering future hope for HER2-positive upper gastrointestinal malignancies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Tumorigenesis involves complex molecular pathways, with HER2 receptor overexpression linked to poor prognosis in solid tumors.
  • HER2 overexpression occurs in up to 25% of gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas, mirroring its role in breast cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the HER2 pathway's significance in cancer cell survival.
  • To familiarize the audience with current and emerging HER2-targeted therapies for upper gastrointestinal cancers.

Main Methods:

  • Focused review of the HER2 pathway and its role in tumorigenesis.
  • Discussion of existing HER2-targeted agents and their clinical application.
  • Exploration of ongoing research and development in HER2-targeted therapies.

Main Results:

  • Trastuzumab combined with chemotherapy is the standard treatment for metastatic HER2-overexpressing esophageal and gastric cancers.
  • Lapatinib, effective in breast cancer, is under investigation for HER2-overexpressing esophageal and gastric adenocarcinomas.

Conclusions:

  • Treatment for upper gastrointestinal malignancies remains challenging despite advances.
  • Ongoing development of monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting HER2 shows promise for improving patient outcomes.

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