Which immunotherapy drug targets PD-1 receptors on T cells?

Which immunotherapy drug targets PD-1 receptors on T cells?

• A. Nivolumab
• B. Pembrolizumab
• C. Atezolizumab
• D. Durvalumab

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is based on the specific action of the drug on the immune system. Pembrolizumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that specifically targets the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor found on T cells. By blocking the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, this drug enhances the immune response against cancer cells, allowing T cells to remain active and effectively attack tumors. In contrast, while Nivolumab also targets PD-1, it wasn't selected as the correct answer in this scenario since the question focuses specifically on Pembrolizumab as the primary example. Atezolizumab and Durvalumab, on the other hand, target the programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) rather than PD-1, which is why they do not fit the criteria established by the question. Understanding the precise mechanisms of these therapies is crucial in the landscape of cancer immunotherapy, as each agent has differing targets and consequently different therapeutic implications.

The correct choice is based on the specific action of the drug on the immune system. Pembrolizumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that specifically targets the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor found on T cells. By blocking the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, this drug enhances the immune response against cancer cells, allowing T cells to remain active and effectively attack tumors.

In contrast, while Nivolumab also targets PD-1, it wasn't selected as the correct answer in this scenario since the question focuses specifically on Pembrolizumab as the primary example. Atezolizumab and Durvalumab, on the other hand, target the programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) rather than PD-1, which is why they do not fit the criteria established by the question. Understanding the precise mechanisms of these therapies is crucial in the landscape of cancer immunotherapy, as each agent has differing targets and consequently different therapeutic implications.