Recent advances in HER2-targeted delivery for cancer therapy
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Updated: Nov 24, 2025

Polymalic Acid-based Nano Biopolymers for Targeting of Multiple Tumor Markers: An Opportunity for Personalized Medicine?
Published on: June 13, 2014
Rakesh Kumar Dhritlahre1, Ankit Saneja1
1Formulation Laboratory, Dietetics & Nutrition Technology Division, CSIR - Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, 176061, Himachal Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Abstract:
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a tyrosine kinase receptor with a molecular mass of 185kDa, is overexpressed in several cancers, such as breast, gastric, ovary, prostate, and lung. HER2 is a promising target in cancer therapy because of its crucial role in cell migration, proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis through various intracellular signaling cascades. This receptor is an ideal target for the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents because of its accessibility to the extracellular domain. In this review, we highlight different HER2-targeting strategies and various approaches for HER2-targeted delivery systems to improve outcomes for cancer therapy.
Insights
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is overexpressed in many cancers and is a key target for therapy. This review explores HER2-targeting strategies and delivery systems to enhance cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a tyrosine kinase receptor frequently overexpressed in various cancers, including breast, gastric, ovarian, prostate, and lung cancers.
- HER2 plays a critical role in cancer progression, influencing cell migration, proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis via intracellular signaling pathways.
- The extracellular domain of HER2 is accessible, making it an attractive target for targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight diverse strategies for targeting HER2 in cancer therapy.
- To explore various approaches for HER2-targeted drug delivery systems.
- To discuss methods for improving therapeutic outcomes in HER2-overexpressing cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of HER2-targeting strategies.
- Analysis of different HER2-targeted delivery systems.
- Synthesis of information on improving cancer therapy outcomes.
Main Results:
- HER2 overexpression is a significant factor in multiple cancer types.
- Targeting HER2 offers a promising therapeutic avenue due to its role in cancer cell functions.
- The extracellular domain of HER2 allows for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents.
Conclusions:
- HER2 is a validated and crucial target for developing novel cancer therapies.
- Various HER2-targeting strategies and delivery systems are being investigated to improve treatment efficacy.
- Targeted delivery to HER2-overexpressing cancer cells holds potential for enhanced patient outcomes.
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