Optical biosensors advance rapid HER-2 quantification but require standardization for clinical adoption
The review examines optical biosensing platforms, including fluorescence, surface plasmon resonance, and colorimetric assays, as alternatives to traditional immunohistochemistry for HER-2 quantification. Investigators highlight how these technologies enable faster, more precise, and decentralized testing compared to centralized laboratory workflows. The authors note that while emerging point-of-care devices show promise for precision oncology, widespread clinical adoption depends on resolving standardization, large-scale validation, and regulatory barriers. This synthesis provides laboratory directors with a roadmap for evaluating next-generation biosensors as they transition from experimental setups to routine diagnostic use.
The original study
Quantifying HER-2 for Precision Oncology: The Role of Optical Biosensors.
- Authors
- Abuhassan Q, Al-Nabulsi JI, Patel PN, Jamuna KV, Tripathi V, Nayak PP, et al.
- Journal
- Molecular biotechnology
- Type
- Journal Article, Review
- PMID
- 42730986
Original abstract
The ability to measure the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER-2), a biomarker associated with aggressive breast cancer and other malignancies, is vital to both providing an accurate diagnosis and tailoring individualized therapeutic management of patients. Although traditional approaches to diagnose HER-2 through laboratory testing using immunohistochemical techniques are established methods, they may be slow, semi-quantitative, and dependent on centralized laboratory facilities. This review first provides a concise overview of the biomarker HER-2 and its role in cancer, then proceeds to review recent advances in optical biosensing platforms designed for the sensitive and specific detection of HER-2. We describe how various optical transducers, including fluorescence, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and colorimetric assays, are being used for quantification of HER-2 in clinical and experimental settings. We also highlight emerging point-of-care (POC) devices that utilize optical technologies for rapid, decentralized HER-2 measurement. In conclusion, this review discusses current challenges associated with the clinical translation of optical biosensors, including standardization, large-scale validation, and regulatory implementation, while also highlighting future directions involving nanotechnology integration, liquid biopsy strategies, and AI-assisted diagnostic systems for precision oncology.