Physiological and pathological cells of the breast
The abbreviation HER2 stands for Human Epidermic Receptor 2. Like the name implies, it`s a cell surface receptor on breast cancer cells that serves as a docking station for growth factors. When there are many HER2 receptors, the cell divides very often, which leads to fast and uncontrolled growth of the cancer. A therapeutic option is the blocking of these receptors by monoclonal antibodies, like for example Trastuzumab (brand name: Herceptin®).
