Dual-recognizing antibodies targeting CEACAMs in the tumor microenvironment: towards more precise targeting

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The tumor microenvironment (TME) significantly impacts cancer progression.
• The Carcinoembryonic Antigen-Related Cell Adhesion Molecule (CEACAM) family is aberrantly expressed in various cancers.
• CEACAMs play a critical role in regulating the TME.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review CEACAM family structure and tumor-promoting mechanisms.
• To discuss limitations of current CEACAM-targeting antibody drugs.
• To propose novel strategies for enhanced cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of CEACAM family functions in cancer.
• Analysis of existing CEACAM-targeting antibody drugs and clinical outcomes.
• Development of a conceptual framework for optimized antibody design.

Main Results:

• CEACAMs exhibit distinct structural features and tumor-promoting mechanisms.
• Current CEACAM-targeting antibodies face challenges due to normal tissue expression, leading to toxicity and limited efficacy.
• Antibody optimization strategies are crucial for improving therapeutic outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Understanding CEACAMs' roles in the TME is key for targeted cancer therapy.
• A "dual-recognition" antibody framework and precision targeting at multiple levels are proposed.
• Future research should focus on optimizing antibody design for enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity in cancer treatment.