HER -2/neu overexpression abrogates growth inhibitory pathways

摘要

The present invention provides methods for obtaining genetic profiles of cancer cells in order to assess the status of a cancer in an individual. In addition, the present invention provides methods for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells that exhibit certain genetic profiles. These methods identify an important link between HER-2/neu overexpression and loss of growth inhibition by the TGF-beta signaling pathway in cancer cells. Compositions as well as therapeutic and diagnostic methodologies based on this disclosure are provided.