Presentation Type
Oral/Paper Presentation
Abstract
Breast cancer affects approximately 2.3 million women worldwide, causing an estimated 670,000 deaths in 2022. Among its subtypes, 15-20% exhibit overexpression of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2), a tyrosine kinase receptor that drives tumor aggressiveness. HER2 activates the PI3K and RAS/RAF/MAPK pathways, promoting uncontrolled cell growth, proliferation, and survival. In HER2+ breast cancer, gene amplification leads to excess HER2 protein production, resulting in persistent signaling and unchecked tumor progression. However, this dependency on HER2 presents a key therapeutic opportunity. Trastuzumab, an anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody, inhibits HER2 signaling and enhances immune-mediated cancer cell destruction. When combined with Lapatinib, chemotherapy, or surgery, Trastuzumab significantly improves patient outcomes. While HER2 overexpression accelerates tumor progression, it also serves as a critical target for effective breast cancer treatment.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Joshua Owens
Recommended Citation
Cole, Emerald and Brigance, Zoe Grace, "HER2 Amplification in Breast Cancer and its Treatment Options" (2025). Student Scholar Symposium. 29.
https://digitalcollections.lipscomb.edu/student_scholars_symposium/2025/Full_schedule/29
Included in
HER2 Amplification in Breast Cancer and its Treatment Options
Breast cancer affects approximately 2.3 million women worldwide, causing an estimated 670,000 deaths in 2022. Among its subtypes, 15-20% exhibit overexpression of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2), a tyrosine kinase receptor that drives tumor aggressiveness. HER2 activates the PI3K and RAS/RAF/MAPK pathways, promoting uncontrolled cell growth, proliferation, and survival. In HER2+ breast cancer, gene amplification leads to excess HER2 protein production, resulting in persistent signaling and unchecked tumor progression. However, this dependency on HER2 presents a key therapeutic opportunity. Trastuzumab, an anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody, inhibits HER2 signaling and enhances immune-mediated cancer cell destruction. When combined with Lapatinib, chemotherapy, or surgery, Trastuzumab significantly improves patient outcomes. While HER2 overexpression accelerates tumor progression, it also serves as a critical target for effective breast cancer treatment.