Trametinib’s mechanism of action

Trametinib (Trametinib) is a drug called a MEK inhibitor. Its mechanism of action is mainly related to cell signal transduction pathways. The mechanism of action of trametinib is to block the signaling of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway by inhibiting the activity of MEK protein. It binds to the MEK protein and blocks its ability to phosphorylate ERK, thereby inhibiting the activity of this pathway. In this way, trametinib can inhibit the growth, differentiation and metastasis of cancer cells and promote cell death.

Under normal circumstances, cells regulate growth, differentiation, survival and other processes through complex signal transduction pathways. One of the important signaling pathways is theRAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway. When the receptor is activated, the RAS protein initiates this pathway by activating the RAF protein. Next, RAF protein phosphorylates and activates MEK protein, and MEK further phosphorylates and activates ERK protein. Ultimately, ERK protein triggers a series of reactions in cells, such as gene transcription and cell proliferation, through nuclear transport and phosphorylation of substrate proteins.

The original drug of trametinib has been launched in China and has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance, but it may only be purchased by patients who meet the indications of trametinib, such as BRAF V600 mutation-positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Its price is around 10,000 to 20,000 yuan. The reimbursement ratio is different in different regions, and the price is also different, making it expensive. The price of the Turkish version of the original drug Trametinib listed overseas is around RMB 7,900 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The price of the generic version of Trametinib produced by the Lao pharmaceutical factory is around RMB 2,950 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The ingredients and efficacy of foreign generic drugs are basically the same as those of the domestic and foreign original drugs.