|
Synonyms: L01XC09 | Removab®
catumaxomab is an approved drug (EMA (2009))
Compound class:
Antibody
Comment: Catumaxomab belongs to a novel generation of engineered monoclonal antibodies termed trifunctional (or Triomab®) antibodies [1,5-6].
Triomabs are hybrid antibodies that carry different antigen binding domains derived from rat IgG2b and mouse IgG2a monoclonals. One binding site (specified by the mouse IgG2a chain chain) is designed to interact with a specific tumour-associated antigen, in catumaxomab's case EpCAM. The other catumaxomab antigen binding site interacts with CD3e (specified by the rat IgG2b chain) on polyclonal T lymphocytes (effector cells). Finally, the intact Fc region of the Triomab® interacts with Fcγ receptors on accessory cells (monocytes/macrophages, natural killer cells and dendritic cells). This combination of interactions enables the formation of a tri-cell complex composed of tumour cells, T cells and accessory cells and promotes the synchronous activation of a variety of immune effector mechanisms that ultimately mediate an enhanced anti-tumour response. |
| No information available. |
Summary of Clinical Use  |
| EMA approval to treat cancer-associated peritoneal ascites fluid accumulation in patients with EpCAM +ve cancers was withdrawn at the request of the marketing authorisation holder (Neovii Biotech) in 2017 for commercial reasons. The therapy retains EMA orphan drug designation for the treatment of gastric cancer which was granted in 2006. |
| Mechanism Of Action and Pharmacodynamic Effects |
| Catumaxomab acts by binding to epitopes on malignant cells (EpCAM), T cells (CD3e) and antigen-presenting cells (Fc receptor on macrophages, natural killer cells or a dendritic cells), and thus directs the immune system to selectively destroy the malignant cells. |
| External links |
|
For extended ADME data see the following: European Medicines Agency (EMA) |
