In terms of breast cancer, what type of cells are targeted by HER2 therapies?

HER2 therapies specifically target HER2-positive cancer cells. HER2, or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is a protein that can promote the growth of cancer cells. In some breast cancers, there is an overexpression of the HER2 protein, allowing these cells to multiply uncontrollably. Therapies designed to target HER2, such as trastuzumab (Herceptin), focus on blocking the HER2 receptor, inhibiting the growth of these specific cancer cells.

This targeted approach is crucial because it allows for the destruction of the cancerous cells while minimizing damage to normal, healthy cells. By focusing on HER2-positive cancer cells, these therapies can be more effective in treating patients with this specific subtype of breast cancer, leading to better outcomes compared to traditional treatments that may not discriminate between cancerous and normal cells.