Expanding the reach of HER2-targeted therapies: transformation of an historical paradigm

The understanding that HER2 plays a critical role in tumorigenesis has fundamentally changed the treatment of breast cancer over the last 30 years, with HER2-targeted therapies substantially improving the likelihood of survival and cure for a subset of patients. Introduction of ADCs, and particularly TDx-D, represents yet another major step forward in this field, but important questions remain concerning the selection of patients, management of toxicity, and mechanisms of resistance. Each of these is being addressed in ongoing preclinical studies, clinical trials, and reviews of current and potential policies and technologies in order to ensure that all patients who may benefit from this therapy are able to gain access to the treatment.