QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
This is the mechanism of action of the drug trastuzumab (Herceptin). Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) is over-expressed in 20-30% of breast cancers. Trastuzumab prevents signalling, suppresses angiogenesis and growth and mediates cytotoxicity.
10004217
b
HER2 monoclonal antibody
QuestionChoice
Oestrogen can promote the expression of genes in breast cancer that can stimulate cancer growth. Therefore, tamoxifen prevents this from happening. It is often used prophylactically after surgery for early-stage breast cancer.
10004216
a
Oestrogen receptor antagonist
QuestionChoice
A substance that would stimulate estrogen receptors would be counterintuitive. Around 60% of breast cancers are oestrogen receptor-positive.  Oestrogen acts to promote the proliferation of the cancer. Therefore this is incorrect.
10004219
d
Oestrogen receptor agonist
QuestionChoice
This is the mechanism of action of the drug docetaxel which can be used to treat certain types of breast cancer. By stabilizing microtubules, there are aberrant, multipolar spindles and chromosomes are unable to segregate leading to apoptosis of the cancerous cells.
10004218
c
Stabilizes microtubules
QuestionChoice
This is the mechanism of action of Gardasil which is used for HPV vaccination. This is used for prophylaxis of cervical cancer due to the HPV virus being a significant risk factor for cervical cancer.
10004220
e
Stimulates human papillomavirus (HPV) targeting antibodies
Concept
Chapter
2693
4250
Tamoxifen
Topic
210
Reproductive Pharmacology
13390
A 43-year-old woman has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is started on tamoxifen.

Which of the following describes the mechanism of action of this drug?
a