Hervycta

Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the HER2/neu receptor, which is overexpressed on the surface of certain cancer cells, particularly in HER2-positive breast cancer. It works by binding to the extracellular domain of the HER2 receptor, inhibiting the signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation and survival. Additionally, trastuzumab activates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), a process where immune cells are recruited to destroy the HER2-positive cancer cells. This dual action - blocking HER2 signalling and enhancing immune cell-mediated destruction -helps to reduce tumour growth and is the basis for trastuzumab’s therapeutic efficacy in treating HER2-positive cancers.