What effect does Herceptin treatment have on cancer cells?

Herceptin, also known as trastuzumab, is a monoclonal antibody designed to target the HER2 receptor, which is overexpressed in certain types of breast cancer and other malignancies. The treatment works by specifically binding to the HER2 protein on the surface of cancer cells, which leads to a blockade of excessive growth signaling that is often responsible for the aggressive behavior of HER2-positive tumors.

By inhibiting this signaling pathway, Herceptin disrupts the proliferation and survival signals that encourage tumor growth. Additionally, it enhances the immune system’s ability to recognize and destroy these cancer cells. This dual action—blocking growth signals and stimulating an immune response—underlines its effectiveness in treating HER2-positive cancers.

The mechanism emphasizes the importance of targeted therapies in oncology, as they can selectively affect cancer cells while potentially preserving normal, healthy cells. This selectivity and the promotion of immune-mediated destruction are why the correct understanding of Herceptin's function is that it blocks excessive growth signaling and promotes immune destruction of cancer cells.