Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. c-erbB-2 (HER2/neu) gene amplification can be found in approximately 20 % of breast cancer patients and its presence is associated with higher risk of distant metastases and worse prognosis. Since trastuzumab (monoclonal antibody against the HER2 receptor protein) is considered a standard approach in HER2-positive patients, the prognosis has rapidly improved.
The major issue seems to be primary and acquired resistance to trastuzumab. Novel agents are tested to overcome trastuzumab resistance.
We review the basic biological principles of HER receptor family function and some of their clinical implications. We also include mechanisms of action of the most promising therapeutic agents in HER2-positive breast cancer treatment.