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Antitumor activity of DAB389IL-2 fusion toxin in mycosis fungoides

M N Saleh1, C F LeMaistre, T M Kuzel

  • 1The University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA.

Abstract

Insights

DAB389IL-2, a novel fusion toxin, shows antitumor activity and is well tolerated in patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This therapy induced clinical responses in mycosis fungoides, even in previously treated patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Drug Development

Background:

  • DAB389IL-2 is a novel fusion toxin designed to target tumors expressing the interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor.
  • It utilizes the cytotoxic A-chain of diphtheria toxin for targeted tumor cell destruction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and clinical efficacy of DAB389IL-2.
  • The study focused on patients with lymphoproliferative malignancies, specifically cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

Main Methods:

  • A phase I clinical trial was conducted with dose escalation.
  • DAB389IL-2 was administered intravenously for 5 consecutive days every 3 weeks.
  • Patients were monitored for toxicity, pharmacokinetics, immune response, and efficacy.

Main Results:

  • Thirty-five CTCL patients, including 30 with mycosis fungoides, were treated; 34 had failed prior conventional therapies.
  • Objective responses were observed in 13 patients (37%), with 5 (14%) achieving complete response, particularly those with extensive erythroderma and tumor-stage mycosis fungoides.
  • Adverse events included reversible fever, chills, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, and elevated hepatic transaminases. Doses below 31 microg/kg/day were well tolerated.

Conclusions:

  • DAB389IL-2 demonstrates good tolerability at doses under 31 microg/kg/day.
  • The fusion toxin induced clinical responses in patients with mycosis fungoides, confirming its antitumor activity.

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