Monoclonal Antibodies: These are laboratory-produced molecules that can bind to specific antigens, such as HER2. Examples include trastuzumab and pertuzumab. These drugs work by blocking HER2 signaling and flagging cancer cells for destruction by the immune system. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: These small molecules, such as lapatinib and neratinib, inhibit the tyrosine kinase domain of the HER2 receptor, thereby blocking downstream signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth. Antibody-Drug Conjugates: These are complex molecules that combine a monoclonal antibody with a cytotoxic drug. An example is trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), which delivers the cytotoxic agent directly to HER2-positive cancer cells, minimizing damage to normal cells.
