Amplification or over-expression of the ERBB2 (HER2/NEU) gene occurs in approximately 15-30% of breast cancers. It is strongly associated with increased disease recurrence and a poor prognosis. Over-expression is also known to occur in ovarian, stomach, and aggressive forms of uterine cancer, such as uterine serous endometrial carcinoma.
ERBB2, located on the long arm of human chromosome 17 (17q12), is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB) family which is composed of four plasma membrane-bound receptor tyrosine kinases. Signaling through the ErbB family of receptors promotes cell proliferation and opposes apoptosis.
ERBB2 is the target of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (marketed as Herceptin®).
Clinical Applications
- Solid Tumors (Solid Tumors)