Mathematical model predicts resistance to Herceptin

Publication
Article
Oncology NEWS InternationalOncology NEWS International Vol 18 No 8
Volume 18
Issue 8

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland have built a mathematical model to determine the role of PTEN protein expression on resistance to trastuzumab (Herceptin).

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland have built a mathematical model to determine the role of PTEN protein expression on resistance to trastuzumab (Herceptin).

Dana Faratian, MD, and colleagues used 56 differential equations to analyze the change in concentrations of 56 separate biological entities including proteins and lipid second messengers.

They worked with 122 breast cancers treated with trastuzumab and found that quantitative PTEN protein expression was a key determinant of who would be resistant or sensitive to trastuzumab. In addition, using the mathematical modeling techniques, the absence of PTEN was more predictive than could be determined using standard multivariate or laboratory analysis (Cancer Res online, July 21, 2009).

The results help explain why some patients still fail on tratuzumab, commented Sofia Merajver, MD, PhD, a Cancer Research editoral board member.

Recent Videos
Providing easier access to ancillary services for patients with PDAC who live farther away from the treatment center may help them complete the treatment regimen.
Future research will aim to assess the efficacy of PIPAC-MMC plus systemic therapy vs systemic therapy alone in patients with peritoneal tumors.
Although small incision surgery may serve as a conduit to deliver PIPAC-MMC, it may confer benefits in the staging and treatment of peritoneal tumors.
Patients with peritoneal metastases were historically associated with limited survival and low consideration for clinical trials.
Greater cancer treatment longevity enables oncologists the ability to form more impactful relationships with their patients.
3 experts are featured in this series.
3 experts are featured in this series.
Related Content