GATE 2023 BT – Question 16
Which one of the following drugs is NOT an immune checkpoint inhibitor?
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Correct answer: (D) Trastuzumab
Explanation
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are antibodies that block inhibitory receptors on T cells, restoring anti-tumour immunity.
- **Ipilimumab:** blocks **CTLA-4**. ✓ (checkpoint inhibitor)
- **Pembrolizumab:** blocks **PD-1**. ✓
- **Nivolumab:** blocks **PD-1**. ✓
- **Trastuzumab:** binds the **HER2** receptor on breast cancer cells and blocks its growth signalling. It is a targeted antibody, not a checkpoint inhibitor. ✗
Answer **Trastuzumab** (D).