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Paclitaxel + Trastuzumab

Institut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Paclitaxel works by inhibiting microtubule dynamics, thereby inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Trastuzumab targets the HER2/neu receptor, which is overexpressed in certain breast cancer cells, and triggers antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity.

Paclitaxel works by inhibiting microtubule dynamics, thereby inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Trastuzumab targets the HER2/neu receptor, which is overexpressed in certain breast cancer cells, and triggers antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity. Used for Adjuvant treatment of node-positive breast cancer, First-line treatment of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer.

At a glance

Generic namePaclitaxel + Trastuzumab
SponsorInstitut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe
Drug classTaxane + monoclonal antibody
TargetMicrotubules + HER2/neu receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Paclitaxel's mechanism of action involves the stabilization of microtubules, preventing their disassembly and thereby inhibiting cell division. This leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Trastuzumab, on the other hand, is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the HER2/neu receptor, which is overexpressed in certain breast cancer cells. This binding triggers antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity, ultimately leading to the death of cancer cells.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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