Advances in anticancer immunotoxin therapy

Oncologist. 2015 Feb;20(2):176-85. doi: 10.1634/theoncologist.2014-0358. Epub 2015 Jan 5.

Abstract

Immunotoxins are a novel class of antibody-conjugated therapeutics currently in clinical development for a variety of malignancies. They consist of an antibody-based targeting domain fused to a bacterial toxin payload for cell killing. Immunotoxins kill cells by inhibiting protein synthesis, a unique mechanism of action that is toxic to both dividing and nondividing cells. Recent advances in the design and administration of immunotoxins are overcoming historical challenges in the field, leading to renewed interest in these therapeutics.

Keywords: Antibody conjugate; Antidrug antibody; Recombinant immunotoxin; Vascular leak syndrome.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Toxins / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Immunotoxins / therapeutic use*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Protein Biosynthesis / drug effects

Substances

  • Bacterial Toxins
  • Immunotoxins