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Beyond RAS and BRAF: HER2, a New Actionable Oncotarget in Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Chiara Guarini1,2, Teresa Grassi2, Gaetano Pezzicoli1,2

  • 1Post-Graduate School of Specialization in Medical Oncology, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', 70124 Bari, Italy.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 2, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) is an emerging target in advanced colorectal cancer (aCRC). Research explores its predictive role and potential as an actionable oncotarget for tailored therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Therapeutics

Background:

  • Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) is a known oncogenic driver and therapeutic target in breast and gastric cancers.
  • HER2 alterations (amplification, mutations) are found in a subset of advanced colorectal cancer (aCRC) patients.
  • Currently, limited actionable oncotargets exist for aCRC beyond RAS and BRAF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the predictive and prognostic significance of HER2 expression in aCRC.
  • To discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting HER2 in aCRC, from preclinical data to ongoing clinical trials.
  • To evaluate HER2 as a potential actionable oncotarget in aCRC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of preclinical investigations and clinical trials.
  • Analysis of the role of HER2 as a predictive biomarker for anti-EGFR therapies in CRC.
  • Assessment of HER2's prognostic value in aCRC.
  • Evaluation of emerging clinical evidence for HER2-targeted agents in aCRC.

Main Results:

  • HER2's role as a predictive biomarker for anti-EGFR therapies in CRC is established.
  • The prognostic value of HER2 in aCRC remains debated.
  • Growing clinical evidence supports HER2 as a potential actionable oncotarget in aCRC.

Conclusions:

  • HER2-targeted therapies show promise for integrating into aCRC treatment algorithms.
  • Future strategies may lead to more personalized therapeutic approaches for aCRC.
  • HER2 represents a significant emerging therapeutic opportunity in advanced colorectal cancer.
Keywords:
HER2colorectal cancertargeted therapy

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