HER2 Mode of Action

HER2 is a member of the EGFR family. While no known high-affinity ligand has been identified for this receptor, HER2 is often activated through heterodimerisation with other members of the EGFR family after they have bound to their respective ligands.¹

In NSCLC, gene amplification and overexpression of HER2 have been associated with a poor prognosis.^{2, 3} Therefore, the targeting and subsequent inhibition of HER2 activity is an active area of ongoing clinical investigation.

1. Hynes NE, Lane HA. Nat Rev Cancer. 2005;5(5):341-354.

2. Herbst RS, Heymach JV, Lippman SM. N Engl J Med. 2008;359(13):1367-1380.

3. Swanton C, Futreal A, Eisen T. Clin Cancer Res. 2006

Source for healthcare professionals: www.inoncology.com
* Nintedanib (BIBF 1120), afatinib (BIBW 2992) and volasertib (BI 6727) are investigational compounds. Their safety and efficacy have not yet been fully established.

† Not an official event of the 2012 ASCO Annual Meeting. Not sponsored or endorsed by ASCO or the Conquer Cancer Foundation.

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