[Development in the last 20 years of anti-HER2 targeted therapy for breast cancer]

B Liu1, J B Li1, Z F Jiang1

  • 1Department of Oncology, the Fifth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100071, China.

Insights

China

Area of Science:

  • Oncology, Pharmacology, and Medical Research

Context:

  • Trastuzumab's approval in 2002 marked the beginning of targeted therapy for breast cancer in China.
  • Over two decades, anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapy evolved through single-target, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, dual-target approaches, and antibody-drug conjugates.

Purpose:

  • To review the evolution and advancements in anti-HER2 targeted therapy for breast cancer in China over the past 20 years.
  • To highlight the contributions of Chinese scholars and the development of a unique treatment system.

Summary:

  • Anti-HER2 targeted therapy has transformed treatment for HER2-positive and HER2-low breast cancer, significantly improving patient outcomes.
  • Chinese researchers have actively engaged in international studies, developed novel drugs, and established treatment guidelines reflecting both global standards and local characteristics.

Impact:

  • Significant improvements in prognosis for patients with HER2-positive and HER2-low breast cancer.
  • Establishment of a robust, China-specific anti-HER2 treatment system, exemplified by national guidelines and expert consensus.

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