Trastuzumab Emtansine ELISA Kit

Trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), also known by its brand name Kadcyla, is an antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) that combines the HER2-targeting monoclonal antibody trastuzumab with the cytotoxic agent DM1 (a derivative of maytansine). The biomarker central to T-DM1’s mechanism of action is human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor overexpressed in approximately 15–20% of breast cancers and associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis. HER2 positivity, determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), serves as both a predictive and diagnostic biomarker, guiding the use of HER2-targeted therapies such as trastuzumab and T-DM1.

In the research setting, T-DM1 is a key model for studying ADC pharmacodynamics, resistance mechanisms, and biomarker evolution in HER2-positive malignancies. Investigations often focus on the heterogeneity of HER2 expression, mechanisms of acquired resistance (such as HER2 downregulation or impaired internalization), and the development of next-generation ADCs with improved payload delivery and reduced toxicity. Studies also explore the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and other liquid biopsy biomarkers to monitor therapeutic response and detect resistance early.

In the clinical setting, T-DM1 is primarily used for the treatment of HER2-positive metastatic and early-stage breast cancer, particularly in patients who have previously received trastuzumab and a taxane. Its dual mechanism allows for targeted delivery of the cytotoxic DM1 to HER2-overexpressing tumor cells while preserving trastuzumab’s anti-HER2 signaling inhibition and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). The identification and quantification of HER2 expression thus remain critical for patient selection, treatment efficacy, and ongoing monitoring of therapeutic outcomes.

This product is manufactured in USA by Eagle Biosciences.