There are several classes of antitumor agents, each with unique properties and mechanisms of action. Examples include:
Chemotherapeutic drugs: Traditional drugs like doxorubicin, cisplatin, and paclitaxel that directly kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. Targeted therapies: Agents like imatinib and erlotinib that specifically target molecular pathways involved in cancer growth. Biologics: Monoclonal antibodies such as trastuzumab and checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab that help the immune system fight cancer. Natural compounds: Substances like curcumin, resveratrol, and various plant extracts that have shown antitumor effects in studies.