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Published on: October 30, 2013
Technology evaluation: C242-DM1, ImmunoGen Inc
1Suzanne_Smith162@hotmail.com
Abstract:
C242-DM1 is a tumor-activated immunotoxin under development by GlaxoSmithKline plc (formerly SmithKline Beecham plc), under licence from ImmunoGen Inc, as a potential treatment for colon tumor. It consists of a colon cancer-specific humanized antibody, C242, conjugated to the maytansine derivative DM1. In preclinical studies, C242-DM1 caused complete tumor regression in animal models of both human pancreatic and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at non-toxic doses. C242-DM1 has also been evaluated in an immunoconjugate combination with J-591 (Cornell University). The J591-DM1 immunoconjugate demonstrated effective, antigen-specific delivery of a highly cytotoxic drug to PSMA-positive Pca cells in vitro and in vivo with low systemic toxicity. Results from studies in monkeys showed that C242-DM1 had no significant toxicity or side effects, when administered at doses higher than those that were previously shown to completely eradicate human colon tumors in mice [271420]. ImmunoGen acquired the right to evaluate, and an option to license, technology related to maytansines from Takeda. In February 1999, ImmunoGen and SmithKline Beecham signed a US $45 million development and commercialization agreement for C242-DM1 [313493]. In August 1997, Immunogen received an SBIR grant to advance development of huC242-DM1 [258356]. EP-00425235, held by ImmunoGen, covers conjugated forms of ansamitocin (maytansine) derivatives. Takeda holds several patents for the production of ansamitocin and its analogs, the first one being JP-53124692.
Insights
C242-DM1, an immunotoxin targeting colon cancer, demonstrated complete tumor regression in preclinical models. Studies in monkeys showed no significant toxicity, supporting its potential as a cancer therapeutic.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Drug Development
Background:
- C242-DM1 is an investigational immunotoxin developed for colon cancer treatment.
- It comprises a colon cancer-targeting antibody (C242) linked to a maytansine derivative (DM1).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of C242-DM1 in preclinical cancer models.
- To assess the potential of C242-DM1 as a therapeutic agent for various cancers.
Main Methods:
- Preclinical studies in animal models of pancreatic, non-small cell lung, and colon cancer.
- Evaluation of an immunoconjugate combination (J591-DM1) for prostate cancer cells.
- Toxicology studies in non-human primates.
Main Results:
- C242-DM1 achieved complete tumor regression in animal models at non-toxic doses.
- J591-DM1 showed effective, antigen-specific drug delivery to prostate cancer cells with low systemic toxicity.
- Monkey studies indicated no significant toxicity or side effects at doses exceeding those effective in mice.
Conclusions:
- C242-DM1 exhibits potent anti-tumor activity and a favorable safety profile in preclinical settings.
- The immunotoxin holds promise for the treatment of colon cancer and potentially other malignancies.
- Further clinical development is warranted based on these promising preclinical findings.
