Enhertu

Enhertu, known scientifically as trastuzumab deruxtecan, is an antibody–drug conjugate developed for the treatment of HER2-expressing cancers. It combines a monoclonal antibody that targets the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) with a potent cytotoxic agent linked through a specialized chemical connector. This design allows Enhertu to selectively identify HER2-positive cancer cells and deliver its cytotoxic component directly inside them, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Once Enhertu binds to HER2 on the cancer cell surface, the complex is internalized into the cell. The linker is then broken down, releasing the cytotoxic payload, which interferes with DNA replication and leads to cancer cell death. An additional benefit of this mechanism is the “bystander effect,” where nearby cancer cells with lower HER2 expression may also be affected, improving overall tumor control.
Enhertu is commonly used in certain types of breast cancer, gastric cancer, and other solid tumors that demonstrate HER2 expression, particularly in advanced or metastatic stages. Clinical studies have shown meaningful tumor shrinkage and prolonged disease control in patients who previously had limited treatment options.
Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, vomiting, hair loss, constipation, and reduced blood cell counts. More serious risks may involve lung inflammation, heart function changes, or severe infections, making close clinical monitoring essential throughout therapy.
Ongoing research continues to evaluate Enhertu across additional cancer types and treatment settings. Its development represents a major advancement in targeted oncology, offering a precision-based approach that improves therapeutic effectiveness while aiming to maintain quality of life for individuals with HER2-driven cancers.