Risk of Brain Metastases

Amplification of the HER2 gene is the primary mechanism of HER2 overexpression in tumours.¹

Activation of the HER2 receptor triggers a signaling cascade that promotes cell proliferation and opposes apoptosis.²

Amplification of the HER2 gene in breast cancer is a risk factor for the development of brain metastases.³

To successfully colonise a secondary site, cancer cells separate from the primary tumour, invade through surrounding tissues and basement membranes, enters and survive in the circulation.⁴

Tumour cells arrive in brain vasculature where they arrest in the capillary bed and extravasate entering the brain parenchyma. The metastatic growth process depends on the brain microenvironment, the stromal cells, blood supply, and other factors.⁵

Job Code: UK/BC/2023/0020
Date of Preparation: November 2023