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KEYTRUDA exerts dual ligand blockade

KEYTRUDA is a selective monoclonal antibody that blocks the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) protein pathway, potentiating T-cell responses, including anti-tumour responses.^1,2

When functioning properly, T cells are activated and can attack tumour cells.^1,2

Some tumours can evade the immune system through the PD-1 pathway. On the surface of tumour cells the dual PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, bind to the PD-1 receptors on T cells to inactivate them, allowing tumour cells to evade detection.^1,2

By inhibiting this process, KEYTRUDA reactivates tumour-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and anti-tumour immunity.^1,2

PD-1: Programmed cell death-1; PD-L1: Programmed cell death ligand-1; PD-L2: Programmed cell death ligand-2.

References:

1. Harvey, RD. Clin Pharm Therapeutics 2014:92(2):214-223.
2. KEYTRUDA Summary of product characteristics. Available from:https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2498.

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