HER3, a receptor tyrosine kinase, has gained prominence in cancer biology and therapeutic development within the HER/ErbB family, despite its weak intrinsic kinase activity.
HER3 primarily functions through ligand-induced heterodimerization to activate downstream signaling pathways crucial for cell growth, survival, and differentiation.
Aberrant HER3 expression is linked to various cancers, impacting tumor progression and resistance to therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding HER3 signaling intricacies.
While early attempts to target HER3 with monoclonal antibodies were unsuccessful, next-generation agents like antibody–drug conjugates and bispecific antibodies show promise in clinical trials.
The FDA's approval of zenocutuzumab, a HER3 × HER2 bispecific antibody, for NRG1 fusion-positive NSCLC and pancreatic cancers marks a significant advancement in HER3-targeted therapy.
HER3's role in activating key signaling pathways and its involvement in resistance mechanisms highlight its potential as a crucial target in cancer therapy.
Combining HER3-targeted therapies with existing inhibitors offers a strategy to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes by co-targeting signaling pathways in cancer cells.
Research indicates a connection between HER3 signaling and the tumor immune microenvironment, suggesting opportunities for synergistic effects with immunotherapies.
Developing robust biomarker strategies to identify patients who will benefit from HER3-targeted therapy is crucial for personalized treatment approaches.
Despite challenges like tumor heterogeneity and therapy resistance, ongoing research aims to expand the application of HER3-targeted therapies across various solid tumors.