Trastuzumab
Introduction
Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that interferes with the HER2/neu protein. It is used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer and stomach cancer. Trastuzumab is a form of targeted therapy and is classified as a humanized antibody, meaning it is developed from non-human species and then engineered to resemble human antibodies.
Mechanism of Action
Trastuzumab works by binding to the HER2/neu receptors on the surface of cancer cells. The HER2/neu receptor is a protein that is overexpressed in some types of cancer, leading to rapid and uncontrolled cell growth. By binding to these receptors, Trastuzumab is able to block the signals that tell the cancer cells to grow and divide. This can slow or stop the growth of the cancer.
Uses
Trastuzumab is used in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer and stomach cancer. HER2-positive cancers are those that test positive for a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which promotes the growth of cancer cells. In about 1 of every 5 breast cancers, the cancer cells have a gene mutation that makes an excess of the HER2 protein. Trastuzumab can slow or stop the growth of these HER2-positive cancers.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Trastuzumab can cause side effects. The most common side effects include fever, nausea, vomiting, infusion reactions, diarrhea, infections, increased cough, headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, rash, low white and red blood cells counts, and muscle pain. In rare cases, Trastuzumab can cause heart problems, including those without symptoms (such as reduced heart function) and those with symptoms (such as congestive heart failure).
Clinical Trials
Trastuzumab has been studied in numerous clinical trials to evaluate its safety and effectiveness in treating various types of cancer. These trials have shown that Trastuzumab can significantly improve survival rates for women with HER2-positive breast cancer. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer.
Future Research
Research is ongoing to find new ways to use Trastuzumab in cancer treatment. This includes combining Trastuzumab with other drugs to increase its effectiveness, and using it to treat other types of cancer that are HER2-positive. Researchers are also studying ways to reduce the side effects of Trastuzumab.