Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 13, 2026

Building Up a High-throughput Screening Platform to Assess the Heterogeneity of HER2 Gene Amplification in Breast Cancers
11:34

Building Up a High-throughput Screening Platform to Assess the Heterogeneity of HER2 Gene Amplification in Breast Cancers

Published on: December 5, 2017

Crosstalk between HER2 signaling and angiogenesis in breast cancer: molecular basis, clinical applications and

Raafat S Alameddine1, Zaher K Otrock, Ahmad Awada

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.

Current Opinion in Oncology
|March 23, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

HER2 signaling drives angiogenesis, a key factor in HER2-positive breast cancer resistance. Combining anti-HER2 and anti-angiogenic therapies shows mixed results, with ongoing trials and safety concerns needing further evaluation.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Therapeutics

Background:

  • Angiogenesis is a critical hallmark of cancer, and targeting it is a proven therapeutic strategy.
  • HER2-positive breast cancer presents challenges due to resistance mediated by signaling cascades, including angiogenesis.
  • Understanding the interplay between HER2 signaling and angiogenesis is crucial for overcoming therapeutic resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the molecular mechanisms of crosstalk between HER2 signaling and angiogenesis.
  • To highlight the role of angiogenesis in resistance to anti-HER2 therapy.
  • To survey clinical trials combining anti-HER2 and anti-angiogenic therapies and discuss their potential and challenges.

Main Methods:

  • Review of molecular mechanisms linking HER2 signaling and angiogenesis.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data for combination therapies in HER2-positive breast cancer.
  • Evaluation of safety profiles and efficacy outcomes from relevant studies.

Main Results:

  • HER2 signaling enhances angiogenesis through various mechanisms.
  • Early-phase trials of combination therapy were promising, but late-phase trials (e.g., AVEREL) showed inconsistent benefits.
  • Cardiovascular toxicity and negative experiences with dual targeting in other cancers warrant caution.

Conclusions:

  • A strong molecular link exists between angiogenesis and HER2 signaling.
  • The efficacy of anti-angiogenic therapies in conjunction with anti-HER2 treatments requires further investigation.
  • Ongoing clinical trials are essential for appraising the true potential of this therapeutic approach.

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