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Published on: June 2, 2022
Selective inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-14 blocks tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis
Laetitia Devy1, Lili Huang, Laurent Naa
1Dyax Corp, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA. ldevy@dyax.com
Abstract:
Inhibition of specific matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) is an attractive noncytotoxic approach to cancer therapy. MMP-14, a membrane-bound zinc endopeptidase, has been proposed to play a central role in tumor growth, invasion, and neovascularization. Besides cleaving matrix proteins, MMP-14 activates proMMP-2 leading to an amplification of pericellular proteolytic activity. To examine the contribution of MMP-14 to tumor growth and angiogenesis, we used DX-2400, a highly selective fully human MMP-14 inhibitory antibody discovered using phage display technology. DX-2400 blocked proMMP-2 processing on tumor and endothelial cells, inhibited angiogenesis, and slowed tumor progression and formation of metastatic lesions. The combination of potency, selectivity, and robust in vivo activity shows the potential of a selective MMP-14 inhibitor for the treatment of solid tumors.
Insights
A novel antibody, DX-2400, selectively inhibits matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14), a key driver of tumor growth and metastasis. This targeted approach shows promise for treating solid tumors by blocking angiogenesis and tumor progression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in cancer progression.
- MMP-14 (matrix metalloproteinase-14) plays a critical role in tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis.
- MMP-14 also activates proMMP-2, amplifying pericellular proteolytic activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MMP-14 in tumor growth and angiogenesis.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of a selective MMP-14 inhibitor, DX-2400.
Main Methods:
- Utilized DX-2400, a fully human MMP-14 inhibitory antibody developed via phage display.
- Assessed the effect of DX-2400 on proMMP-2 processing in tumor and endothelial cells.
- Evaluated the impact of DX-2400 on angiogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis in vivo.
Main Results:
- DX-2400 effectively blocked proMMP-2 processing.
- The antibody inhibited angiogenesis and slowed tumor progression.
- DX-2400 reduced the formation of metastatic lesions.
Conclusions:
- Selective inhibition of MMP-14 is a viable non-cytotoxic cancer therapy strategy.
- DX-2400 demonstrates potent, selective, and in vivo efficacy against solid tumors.
- Targeting MMP-14 holds significant therapeutic potential for solid tumor treatment.
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