interleukin-12 + trastuzumab

Interleukin-12 + trastuzumab is an investigational combination therapy consisting of recombinant human interleukin-12 (IL-12), a cytokine with immunostimulatory and antiangiogenic properties, and trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The rationale for this combination is based on preclinical evidence that IL-12 can enhance the antitumor activity of trastuzumab by stimulating natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune responses, particularly through increased production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Clinical studies have evaluated this regimen in patients with HER2-overexpressing cancers, primarily metastatic breast cancer. The combination has shown acceptable safety in early-phase trials, with some evidence of clinical activity including complete and partial responses as well as disease stabilization. Mechanistically, IL-12 augments NK cell activation and cytokine secretion when administered alongside trastuzumab[1][5][3].