Trastuzumab

Definition

Trastuzumab is a targeted therapy drug used primarily for treating certain types of breast cancer that overexpress the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). By specifically binding to the HER2 protein, trastuzumab inhibits tumor growth and promotes apoptosis in cancer cells, representing a significant advancement in personalized medicine that tailors treatment based on individual tumor characteristics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trastuzumab is marketed under the brand name Herceptin and was first approved by the FDA in 1998 for treating HER2-positive breast cancer.
2. The drug is often used in combination with chemotherapy to enhance effectiveness against cancerous tumors.
3. Patients receiving trastuzumab are typically monitored for potential cardiac side effects, as the drug can affect heart function.
4. The use of trastuzumab is a prime example of how personalized medicine can significantly improve outcomes by targeting specific molecular profiles of tumors.
5. Clinical trials have demonstrated that trastuzumab can increase survival rates in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer compared to those who do not receive the treatment.

Review Questions

• How does trastuzumab function at a molecular level to combat HER2-positive breast cancer?
  • Trastuzumab works by binding to the HER2 protein on the surface of cancer cells. This binding blocks the receptor's ability to send signals that promote cell division and growth, which is crucial for tumor progression. Additionally, trastuzumab flags these cancer cells for destruction by the immune system, enhancing the body's ability to eliminate these malignancies. This targeted approach exemplifies how specific treatments can lead to better outcomes compared to traditional therapies.
• Discuss the role of biomarkers in determining the suitability of trastuzumab for breast cancer patients.
  • Biomarkers play a critical role in assessing whether trastuzumab is an appropriate treatment option for breast cancer patients. The presence of HER2 overexpression in tumor samples is essential for selecting candidates who would benefit from this targeted therapy. By utilizing biomarker testing, healthcare providers can ensure that trastuzumab is only administered to those patients whose tumors exhibit this specific characteristic, thus maximizing treatment efficacy and minimizing unnecessary side effects.
• Evaluate the impact of trastuzumab on the landscape of personalized medicine and its implications for future cancer treatments.
  • The introduction of trastuzumab has significantly reshaped the landscape of personalized medicine by demonstrating the importance of tailoring cancer treatments to individual tumor biology. Its success in targeting HER2-positive cancers has paved the way for developing other targeted therapies based on specific genetic and molecular markers. This approach not only enhances treatment effectiveness but also helps minimize adverse effects, representing a shift towards more individualized healthcare strategies in oncology. As research continues, similar innovations are likely to emerge, further refining and improving cancer care.

Related terms

HER2: A protein that can promote the growth of cancer cells; in some cancers, particularly breast cancer, it is overexpressed and indicates a more aggressive disease.

targeted therapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, while doing less harm to normal cells.

biomarker: A biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that can be an indicator of a condition or disease, helping to guide treatment options.