Kacper Rogóż, Dorota Bartusik-Aebisher and David Aebisher
Medical College of The University of Rzeszów, Poland

Part of the book: The Biochemical Guide to Proteins

Abstract

HER2 is a receptor belonging to the 185 kDa family of epidermal growth factor (EGB) receptors. Under physiological conditions, it is responsible for the regulation of the cell cycle, proper growth and proliferation of the cell. The HER2 protein plays a significant role in the vital processes of the cells in the human body. Overexpression or amplification of the gene encoding this membrane receptor can lead to oncotic, enhanced cell proliferation and growth. Research that uses electromagnetic radiation, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, is particularly important. Current research on trastuzumab and its combination with other cytotoxic drugs shows promising results. It is important to understand the mechanism of action of this monoclonal antibody on overexpression/amplification on HER2 receptors. Herceptin may in the future prove to be a breakthrough component of the drug that inhibits cancer cells.

Keywords: HER2, epidermal growth factor (EGF), tumor cell, vinorelbine,
capecitabine, computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET)

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