Beyond Positive & Negative: The Spectrum of HER2 Expression in Cancer

Cancer research and development is a dynamic and ever-evolving field. At Daiichi Sankyo, we thoughtfully question and challenge current standards of care and push to transform the treatment landscape to bring innovative medicines to patients with cancer. In the realm of oncology, understanding the intricacies of cellular growth and division is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments. One significant area of focus is the role of HER2.

What Does HER2 Mean for Cancer?

HER2, or Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2, is a protein located on the surface of some cells that influences cellular growth and division. In certain cancers, such as some forms of breast cancer, there can be too much HER2 which can accelerate cell growth and division, contributing to tumor development.

HER2 expression level is an important factor when determining a targeted therapy for cancer treatment. Through biomarker testing, healthcare providers can determine HER2 levels to tailor treatment strategies. For HER2 positive cancers—cancers with high levels of HER2 expression—specialized therapies are available that specifically target this protein.

But now our interpretation of the HER2 spectrum is evolving…

The Spectrum of HER2 Expression

Historically, HER2 expression levels have been classified as positive or negative. Patients classified as HER2 positive are typically eligible for targeted therapies designed to inhibit the HER2 protein while patients considered HER2 negative are not.

Today, the classification of HER2 expression is expanding and recognizing this while understanding the distinctions within the HER2 spectrum helps to determine the most appropriate treatment options for patients.

Completing the Picture

Treatment identification begins by understanding the pathology of a tumor. Every microscope slide holds the potential to identify a patient eligible for therapy. By looking more closely at IHC scores, pathologists can identify more patients with HER2-expressing tumors and ensure patients receive the appropriate cancer treatment for their level of expression. Thereby, pathology helps “complete the picture” of the HER2 spectrum.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

For patients, having more treatment options means increased chances of finding a therapy that is effective for their specific disease. More options also allow healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans more precisely to meet individual patient needs. This personalized approach can potentially result in better outcomes, fewer side effects, and improved quality of life.

Know Your Level…

Many patients considered to be HER2 negative may not have discussed with their healthcare providers the potential of having lower levels of HER2 expression, which in some cases would require testing. Knowing their level of HER2 expression can be a valuable piece of information when determining treatment plans for certain patients.

As cancer research continues to advance, the work being done by Daiichi Sankyo researchers and others within the industry is pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment. By expanding the spectrum of HER2 expression, Daiichi Sankyo is paving the way for more nuanced and alternative options to address the unmet needs that still exist in cancer care.

This shift not only holds promise for improving patient outcomes but also underscores the importance of personalized medicine in oncology. We continue to challenge and refine the standards of care for the patients of today and tomorrow.