Trastuzumab ( Herceptin ) -research And Development

Trastuzumab (Herceptin)-Research and Development Introduction Cancer is the uncontrollable division and growth of abnormal cells resulting in formation of an aggressive tumour. In some forms of Breast cancer, the cells proliferate uncontrollably due to over-expression of the protein HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2); a receptor embedded within the membrane of cells, allowing for the transfer of signals outside to inside the cell. Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody administered through intravenous infusion, to be taken on its own or in combination with one or more chemotherapy regimens. It reduces risk of the cancer reoccurring or spreading by inhibiting the effects of HER2, and enhancing the body’s immune system. Breast cancer through history Breast cancer has been acknowledged for centuries, with records dating as far back as the ancient Egyptians, over 3500 years ago (1). However diagnosis, research and progress throughout history have been slow due to it being a matter of taboo and humiliation. In 1957 the idea of surgically removing the tumours was suggested by Henri Le Dran, introducing mastectomy to the 20th century; the first scientific step in acting against cancer. Radical mastectomy lengthened survival, however was often declined due to the disfigurement left behind. To overcome this, Bernard Fisher published results from ‘breast conserving’ surgery accompanied by radiation or chemotherapy, which were ‘just as effective’ as a radical mastectomy (1).Show MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Herceptin On Cancer Models And Patients With Her2 + Breast Cancer1735 Words   |  7 PagesHerceptin (trastuzumab) is a therapeutic monoclonal antibody, which is specifically designed to target HER2 (human epid ermal growth factor 2) receptors found on breast cells( Tan, 2010) . HER2 is a receptor protein that is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor family and is over expressed in approximately 10-20% of breast cancers that have amplification of the HER2 gene (Jatoi, et al., 2010). Herceptin has been found to selectively apply anti-tumor effects in cancer models and patientsRead MoreCompare and Contrast Tumor Suppressor Genes and Proto-Oncogenes1341 Words   |  6 PagesCompare and contrast tumour suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes. Discuss an example of how recent advances in our understanding of these genes have led to the development of a novel therapy that is being used in the treatment of human cancer. Cancer known in medicine as a malignant neoplasm is one of the biggest killers worldwide. In 2007, cancer caused roughly 13% (7.9 million) of the planet’s deaths (Jemal, 2011). 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Surgery (radical or modified radical mastectomy, radiation therapy, or both. 2. Systematic chemotherapy or hormone therapy. 3. A clinical trial of trastuzumab (Herceptin) combined with systemic chemotherapy†(Natl.Read MoreEssay On Breast Cancer1547 Words   |  7 Pagesvisible tumour bulk followed by chemo- and radio- therapy targeting distant spread. Breast cancer is often hormone dependant, that is, homrones encourage growth so hormonal therapy is also available, depending on oestrogen (ER) progesterone (PR) and herceptin (HER) receptor status (Hortobagyi, 2005). If on biopsy, the tumour is negative for HER-2, ER and PR, then it is called triple negative breast cancer (TNBR). The lack of these receptors makes hormone therapies ineffective, leaving surgery and chemotherapyRead MoreMonoclonal Antibody ( Magic Bullets ) : A Promising Treatment For Cancer1659 Wor ds   |  7 Pagesdesign (CADD) is an exciting and diverse discipline where various aspects of applied and basic research merge and stimulate each other. In the early stage of a drug discovery process, researchers may be faced with little or no structure activity relationship (SAR) information. The process by which a new drug is brought to market stage is referred to by a number of names most commonly as the development chain or â€Å"pipeline† and consists of a number of distinct stages. To design a rational drug, weRead MoreBenefits of Immunotherapy from Advances in Immunology and Recombinant Dna Technology3196 Words   |  13 Pagespast 25years have also used unmodified monoclonal antibodies and antibodies armed with toxins or radionuclides. 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