HER-2 is a term used in medical research to describe a protein known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. The pronunciation is /hɝ tuː/ with the "h" pronounced as in "hat", the "e" pronounced as in "her", and the "r" pronounced as in "red". The number "2" is pronounced as "tuː" like in a double "o". The correct spelling of this term is important to ensure accurate communication between healthcare professionals and researchers. The protein plays a role in the development and progression of certain cancers, and research on targeted therapies for HER-2 positive cancers is ongoing.
HER-2, also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 or HER2/neu, is a gene that encodes a transmembrane protein receptor found on the surface of cells. In normal conditions, the HER-2 receptor plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth, division, and survival. However, abnormalities in the HER-2 gene can lead to overexpression or amplification of the receptor, resulting in an increased activity and signaling that causes uncontrolled cell growth.
The overexpression of HER-2 is primarily associated with certain types of cancer, most notably breast cancer. It is estimated that approximately 15-20% of breast cancer patients have an overexpression of the HER-2 protein receptor. HER-2 positive breast cancers tend to be more aggressive and have a higher risk of recurrence, as well as a poorer prognosis.
The discovery of HER-2 overexpression in breast cancer has revolutionized treatment options for these patients. Targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) and pertuzumab (Perjeta), have been developed that specifically block the HER-2 receptor, effectively inhibiting the abnormal signaling and slowing down cancer cell growth. These drugs have shown significant clinical benefits and have become an essential part of the treatment regimen for HER-2 positive breast cancer.
In addition to breast cancer, HER-2 overexpression has also been found in other cancer types, including gastric, ovarian, and lung cancer. The identification of HER-2 status through specialized laboratory tests, such as immunohistochemistry or fluorescence in situ hybridization, is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment options for patients affected by HER-2 positive cancers.
The term "HER-2" stands for Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2. It is not an actual word but rather an acronym used in the field of biology and medicine to refer to a specific protein receptor. The etymology of this acronym is as follows:
1. Human: It derives from the Latin word "humanus", meaning relating to or characteristic of humans.
2. Epidermal: It originates from the Greek word "epidermis", which refers to the outer layer of the skin.
3. Growth Factor: It refers to a substance that stimulates cellular growth, which comes from the Old English word "growan" meaning to grow.
4. Receptor: It comes from the Latin word "recipere", meaning to receive. In the context of biology, a receptor is a protein on the surface of a cell that receives and responds to specific signaling molecules.