EGFR/HER2 in breast cancer: a biological approach for molecular diagnosis and therapy

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2008

Authors

Milanezi, F (Author) Other; Carvalho, S (Author) Other; Fernando Schmitt (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Expert Review of Molecular Diagnostics

Vol. 8

Pages: 417-434

ISSN: 1473-7159

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 77 Citations

Scopus - 84 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-Y0Z

DOI: 10.1586/14737159.8.4.417

Abstract (EN): Novel cancer therapies have focused on specific molecular markers present in malignant tumors. The rationale of targeted therapy relies on the knowledge of molecular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis and their influence in clinical outcome allied to a more specific and less toxic treatment. Activation of EGF receptor and HER2 is an important factor for initiation and progression of malignancies, including breast cancer where the status of HER2 is an essential step in the diagnostic workup; EGFR overexpression has been associated to the so-called basal-like breast carcinomas, which opens a new avenue for diagnosis and therapeutic approach in these tumors. This review will focus on mechanisms of HER2 and EGF receptor upregulation, the targeted therapies that are currently in use for these receptors, possible combined therapies, as well as the approach for molecular diagnosis from the pathologist's point of view.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 18