This invention is directed toward novel synergistic combinations of ligand-mimicking agents specific to the c-
erbB-2
protein and anti-neoplastic drugs or agents, which can be used to treat a mammalian host, usually a human, suspected of having
cancer or
tumor cells by administering the combination in a therapeutically- or synergistically-effective amount. The
drug combinations cytotoxic to
tumor cells comprise an anti-neoplastic agent and a molecule, that is not conjugated to the anti-neoplastic agent, that binds the
tumor cells and induces an increase in the
phosphorylation of c-
erbB-2
protein when placed in contact with the tumor cells. Alternatively, the
drug combination cytotoxic to tumor cells may comprise an anti-neoplastic agent and a molecule, that is not conjugated to the anti-neoplastic agent, that binds the tumor cells and causes down modulation or
internalization of c-
erbB-2
protein. The anti-neoplastic
drug is preferably an alkylating agent, most preferably
cisplatin. This combination is particularly effective for inhibiting the growth of breast and
ovarian tumor cells. Methods for killing target tumor cells are contemplated by contacting the target cells with the novel drug combinations, methods for treating mammals by administering therapeutic amounts of the drug combinations are also contemplated.