Targeting HER 2 and angiogenesis in gastric cancer

G Jomrich1, S F Schoppmann1

  • 1a Department of Surgery, Gastroesophageal Tumor Unit, Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria.

Insights

Gastric cancer treatment advances include targeted therapies like trastuzumab. This review covers current applications and ongoing trials for monoclonal antibodies in HER2-positive gastric cancer, addressing resistance challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer death globally.
  • While surgery offers curative potential, over 50% of patients experience relapse or metastasis.
  • Advances in molecular therapies targeting HER2 and angiogenesis have improved treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current clinical applications of targeted therapies in gastric cancer.
  • To overview ongoing clinical trials investigating monoclonal antibodies for gastric cancer treatment.
  • To address the emerging challenge of resistance to targeted therapies like trastuzumab.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current clinical applications of targeted therapies.
  • Analysis of ongoing clinical trials for monoclonal antibodies in gastric cancer.
  • Examination of resistance mechanisms to targeted agents.

Main Results:

  • Targeted therapies, particularly those against HER2, have shown significant progress in gastric cancer treatment.
  • Resistance to monoclonal antibodies like trastuzumab is a growing concern.
  • New therapeutic strategies combining chemotherapy with novel agents are under investigation to overcome resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Monoclonal antibodies represent a key strategy in treating HER2-positive gastric cancer.
  • Overcoming resistance to targeted therapies is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
  • Ongoing research focuses on novel combination therapies to enhance efficacy and manage resistance in gastric cancer.