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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Using X-ray Crystallography, Biophysics, and Functional Assays to Determine the Mechanisms Governing T-cell Receptor Recognition of Cancer Antigens
09:53

Using X-ray Crystallography, Biophysics, and Functional Assays to Determine the Mechanisms Governing T-cell Receptor Recognition of Cancer Antigens

Published on: February 6, 2017

TRAIL-receptor antibodies as a potential cancer treatment

Donald J Buchsbaum1, Andres Forero-Torres, Albert F LoBuglio

  • 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation Biology, 1530 3rd Avenue South, WT1 674, Birmingham, AL 35294-6832, USA. djb@uab.edu

Future Oncology (London, England)
|July 31, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Agonistic monoclonal antibodies targeting TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors show promise for cancer therapy. Clinical trials indicate these TRAIL-receptor antibodies are well-tolerated and effective in stabilizing advanced cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Agonistic monoclonal antibodies targeting TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors DR4/DR5 are emerging as a cancer treatment strategy.
  • These antibodies demonstrate significant apoptosis-inducing and antitumor activities in preclinical models, particularly when combined with chemotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of agonistic monoclonal antibodies against TRAIL death receptors in patients with advanced cancer.
  • To explore the potential of these antibodies as a single agent or in combination therapies for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Phase I and II clinical trials involving humanized or human monoclonal antibodies against DR4 and DR5.
  • Assessment of patient response, including stable disease, and evaluation of toxicity profiles.

Main Results:

  • Clinical trials demonstrated that TRAIL-receptor antibodies are well tolerated in patients with advanced cancer.
  • These antibodies achieved prolonged stable disease, representing a significant antitumor effect in this patient population.

Conclusions:

  • Agonistic TRAIL-receptor antibodies show a favorable safety profile and clinical activity in advanced cancer patients.
  • Ongoing clinical trials are investigating combination regimens to further define the therapeutic potential of these antibodies in various cancer settings.

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