What characteristic is associated with HER2/neu aggressive cancers?

The characteristic associated with HER2/neu aggressive cancers is that they have a protein receptor that controls cell division and repair. HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) is a gene that plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell growth and division. When overexpressed, which occurs in some aggressive breast cancers, it leads to increased cell proliferation and survival, contributing to the aggressive behavior of the cancer.

Typically, HER2-positive cancers tend to grow and spread more quickly than those that do not overexpress this receptor. The presence of the HER2 protein affects both the characteristics of the tumor and its responsiveness to certain therapies. Treatment strategies for HER2-positive cancers often include targeted therapies such as trastuzumab (Herceptin), which specifically inhibits the effects of the HER2 receptor.

This understanding of HER2’s role highlights the emphasis on targeted approaches to treat cancers that exhibit these characteristics. The receptor’s influence on both cell division and repair mechanisms is a central aspect of its involvement in cancer aggressiveness.