Trastuzumab

Definition

Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer and gastric cancer. It specifically targets the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in some cancer cells, and helps to slow or stop the growth of these cancerous cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trastuzumab is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer and gastric cancer, which are characterized by the overexpression of the HER2 protein.
2. Trastuzumab works by binding to the HER2 protein, which blocks the growth and division of cancer cells and can also trigger the body's immune system to attack the cancer cells.
3. Trastuzumab is often used in combination with chemotherapy drugs as part of adjuvant therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
4. Trastuzumab can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously, and it is typically given once every three weeks or weekly, depending on the treatment regimen.
5. Potential side effects of trastuzumab include heart problems, infusion reactions, and an increased risk of certain types of infections.

Review Questions

• Explain how trastuzumab fits into the context of cancer therapy, specifically in relation to the phases of cancer therapy.
  • Trastuzumab is a targeted cancer therapy that is primarily used in the adjuvant phase of cancer treatment. After the primary treatment, such as surgery or chemotherapy, trastuzumab may be administered to help prevent the cancer from returning by targeting the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in certain types of cancer cells. By blocking the growth and division of these cancer cells, trastuzumab can improve the overall prognosis and reduce the risk of recurrence for patients with HER2-positive breast or gastric cancer.
• Describe the mechanism of action of trastuzumab and how it relates to its classification as a chemotherapeutic drug.
  • Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in some cancer cells. By binding to HER2, trastuzumab blocks the growth and division of these cancer cells, effectively slowing or stopping their proliferation. While trastuzumab is not a traditional chemotherapeutic drug that directly kills cancer cells, it is considered a chemotherapeutic agent because it interferes with the cellular processes that drive cancer growth and progression. This targeted mechanism of action makes trastuzumab a valuable addition to the arsenal of chemotherapeutic drugs used in the treatment of HER2-positive cancers.
• Analyze the role of trastuzumab in the overall context of cancer therapy, considering its potential benefits, limitations, and considerations for its use.
  • Trastuzumab has played a significant role in improving the prognosis for patients with HER2-positive breast and gastric cancers. By targeting the HER2 protein, trastuzumab can effectively slow or stop the growth of these cancer cells, leading to better outcomes for patients. However, trastuzumab is not without its limitations. It is only effective in treating cancers that overexpress the HER2 protein, and it can also have potential side effects, such as heart problems. Additionally, some cancer cells may develop resistance to trastuzumab over time. Therefore, the use of trastuzumab must be carefully considered as part of a comprehensive cancer therapy plan, taking into account the individual patient's characteristics, the stage and type of cancer, and the potential benefits and risks of this targeted therapy.

Related terms

HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2): A protein that plays a role in the growth and division of cells. Overexpression of HER2 is associated with certain types of cancer, including breast and gastric cancer.

Monoclonal Antibody: A type of antibody that is produced by a single clone of cells and is designed to target a specific antigen, such as a protein on the surface of cancer cells.

Adjuvant Therapy:

Additional cancer treatment given after the primary treatment (such as surgery) to lower the risk of the cancer returning.