Mind the target: human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 in colorectal cancer

Purpose of review In this article, we briefly summarise the current knowledge about human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) alterations in colorectal cancer (CRC) and provide an overview of the latest published evidence especially regarding standardisation of detection methods/diagnostic criteria, prognostication, prediction and targeted treatments. Recent findings Over the last 18 months, the results of many studies have been presented confirming the therapeutic potential of established anti-HER2 agents either as a monotherapy or in combination, as well as new anti-HER2 agents like antibody-drug-conjugates and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Also, we have seen confirmation of the utility of liquid biopsy and ctDNA analyses as tool for HER2 detection and patient selection. Despite concerning only 5% of metastatic CRC, HER2 represents a valuable target for emerging anti-HER2 therapies that might significantly improve the outcome of these patients. Standardising HER2 detection methods/diagnostic criteria, and producing high-quality, randomised evidence are the next challenges to meet the standards of regulatory authorities and ultimately have anti-HER2 agents available for use in routine practice.

Automated summary

This article summarises the current knowledge about HER2 alterations in CRC and the potential of anti-HER2 therapies. Recent studies confirm the therapeutic potential of established and new anti-HER2 agents, as well as the utility of liquid biopsy and ctDNA analyses for HER2 detection. HER2 represents a valuable target for emerging anti-HER2 therapies.