Profiling and targeting HER2-positive breast cancer using trastuzumab emtansine.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

This article reviews the mechanism of action of trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), existing clinical data relating to its use for human growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer, potential pathways of resistance, and ongoing studies evaluating this novel agent.

Background

The development of HER2-targeted therapies has dramatically improved clinical outcomes for patients with any stage of HER2-positive breast cancer. Although the positive effect of these treatments cannot be overstated, treatment resistance develops in the vast majority of those diagnosed with stage IV HER2-positive breast cancer. Moreover, HER2-directed therapies are most effective when combined with cytotoxic chemotherapy. The need for chemotherapy leads to significant adverse effects and a

SUBMITTER: Sadeghi S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4207068 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature