The ERBB2 gene (a.k.a. HER2 and NEU) is located in the chromosomal region 17q12 and encodes a 185-190 kDa transmembrane glycoprotein, p185, acting as a cellular growth factor receptor. The p185 protein belongs to the EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) subgroup of the RTK (receptor tyrosine kinase) superfamily also including EGFR (ERBB1, HER1), ERBB3 (HER3), and ERBB4 (HER4).

Amplification of the proto-oncogene ERBB2, observed in approximately 20% of all breast cancer samples, has been correlated with a poor prognosis of the disease. Similar results have been obtained for a variety of other malignant neoplasms e.g. ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and carcinomas of the salivary gland.

The detection of ERBB2 amplification by ISH may help in selecting patients eligible for ERBB2-targeted therapy.