Overview:

HER2 is a glycoprotein tyrosine kinase receptor that has extensive homology to the epidermal growth factor receptor. Overexpression of HER2 in NIH 3T3 cells results in cellular transformation and tumorigenesis (1). HER2 is amplified in about 30% of primary human breast malignancies and is associated with the most aggressive tumors. These tumors characteristically display uncontrolled proliferation, resistance to apoptosis and increased motility (2). HER2 activity is regulated in part by phosphorylation at Tyr877.

References:

1. Hudziak, R M. et al: Increased expression of the putative growth factor receptor p185HER2 causes transformation and tumorigenesis of NIH 3T3 cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1987 Oct;84(20):7159-63. 2. Badache, A. et al: The ErbB2 Signaling Network as a Target for Breast Cancer Therapy. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia. 2006 Jan;11(1):13-25.