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Sun W, Hu S, Wang X. Update of antibody-drug conjugates for hematological malignancies. Curr Opin Oncol 2024:00001622-990000000-00191. [PMID: 39007226 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000001065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), consisting of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) covalently linked to cytotoxic drugs via chemical linkers, are a kind of promising tumor immunotherapy. ADCs also face a number of challenges, including unavoidable adverse effects, drug resistance, tumor targeting and payload release. To address these issues, in addition to optimizing the individual components of ADCs, such as new payloads, linkage sites and new targets, and using bispecific antibodies to increase precision, attention should be paid to optimizing the dosage of ADCs. RECENT FINDINGS There are currently 7 ADCs approved for marketing by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hematological malignancies, and dozens of other ADCs are either in clinical trials or in the process of applying for marketing. In recent clinical studies targeting ADCs in hematologic malignancies, in addition to validating effectiveness in different indications, researchers have attempted to combine ADCs with other chemotherapeutic agents in anticipation of increased therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the availability of bispecific antibodies may increase the safety and efficacy of ADCs. SUMMARY This review summarized the progress of research on ADCs in hematological malignancies, the challenges being faced, and possible future directions to improve the efficacy of ADCs, which can provide novel insight into the future exploration of ADCs in the treatment of hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyue Sun
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan
| | - Shunfeng Hu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University
- Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, Shandong
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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2
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Journeaux T, Bernardes GJL. Homogeneous multi-payload antibody-drug conjugates. Nat Chem 2024; 16:854-870. [PMID: 38760431 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-024-01507-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Many systemic cancer chemotherapies comprise a combination of drugs, yet all clinically used antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) contain a single-drug payload. These combination regimens improve treatment outcomes by producing synergistic anticancer effects and slowing the development of drug-resistant cell populations. In an attempt to replicate these regimens and improve the efficacy of targeted therapy, the field of ADCs has moved towards developing techniques that allow for multiple unique payloads to be attached to a single antibody molecule with high homogeneity. However, the methods for generating such constructs-homogeneous multi-payload ADCs-are both numerous and complex owing to the plethora of reactive functional groups that make up the surface of an antibody. Here, by summarizing and comparing the methods of both single- and multi-payload ADC generation and their key preclinical and clinical results, we provide a timely overview of this relatively new area of research. The methods discussed range from branched linker installation to the incorporation of unnatural amino acids, with a generalized comparison tool of the most promising modification strategies also provided. Finally, the successes and challenges of this rapidly growing field are critically evaluated, and from this, future areas of research and development are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby Journeaux
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gonçalo J L Bernardes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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3
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Dong W, Wang W, Cao C. The Evolution of Antibody-Drug Conjugates: Toward Accurate DAR and Multi-specificity. ChemMedChem 2024:e202400109. [PMID: 38758596 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202400109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) consist of antibodies, linkers and payloads. They offer targeted delivery of potent cytotoxic drugs to tumor cells, minimizing off-target effects. However, the therapeutic efficacy of ADCs is compromised by heterogeneity in the drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR), which impacts both cytotoxicity and pharmacokinetics (PK). Additionally, the emergence of drug resistance poses significant challenges to the clinical advancement of ADCs. To overcome these limitations, a variety of strategies have been developed, including the design of multi-specific drugs with accurate DAR. This review critically summarizes the current challenges faced by ADCs, categorizing key issues and evaluating various innovative solutions. We provide an in-depth analysis of the latest methodologies for achieving homogeneous DAR and explore design strategies for multi-specific drugs aimed at combating drug resistance. Our discussion offers a current perspective on the advancements made in refining ADC technologies, with an emphasis on enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenge Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry and Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Wanqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry and Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Chan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry and Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
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4
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Jaffry M, Choudhry H, Aftab OM, Dastjerdi MH. Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Ocular Toxicity. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:675-691. [PMID: 37615544 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a growing class of chemotherapeutic agents for the purpose of treating cancers that often have relapsed or failed first- and second-line treatments. ADCs are composed of extremely potent cytotoxins with a variety of side effects, one of the most significant being ocular toxicity. The available literature describes these toxicities as varying in severity and in incidence, although with disparate methods of evaluation and management. Some of the most common toxicities include microcyst-like epithelial keratopathy and dry eye. We discuss proposed mechanisms of ocular toxicity and describe the reports that mention these toxicities. We focus on ADCs with the most published literature and the most significant effects on ocular tissue. We propose areas for further investigation and possible ideas of future management. We provide a comprehensive look at the reports of ADCs in current literature to better inform clinicians on an expanding drug class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Jaffry
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Hassaam Choudhry
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Owais M Aftab
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mohammad H Dastjerdi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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5
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Dumontet C, Reichert JM, Senter PD, Lambert JM, Beck A. Antibody-drug conjugates come of age in oncology. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:641-661. [PMID: 37308581 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00709-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 119.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) combine the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potency of highly cytotoxic agents, potentially reducing the severity of side effects by preferentially targeting their payload to the tumour site. ADCs are being increasingly used in combination with other agents, including as first-line cancer therapies. As the technology to produce these complex therapeutics has matured, many more ADCs have been approved or are in late-phase clinical trials. The diversification of antigenic targets as well as bioactive payloads is rapidly broadening the scope of tumour indications for ADCs. Moreover, novel vector protein formats as well as warheads targeting the tumour microenvironment are expected to improve the intratumour distribution or activation of ADCs, and consequently their anticancer activity for difficult-to-treat tumour types. However, toxicity remains a key issue in the development of these agents, and better understanding and management of ADC-related toxicities will be essential for further optimization. This Review provides a broad overview of the recent advances and challenges in ADC development for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Dumontet
- CRCL INSERM 1052/CNRS 5286, University of Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.
| | | | | | | | - Alain Beck
- Institut de Recherche Pierre Fabre, CIPF, Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, France
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Dada R. Redefining Precision Management of r/r Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Novel Antibodies Take on CART and BMT in the Quest for Future Treatment Strategies. Cells 2023; 12:1858. [PMID: 37508523 PMCID: PMC10378108 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment paradigms for patients with relapsed large B-cell lymphoma are expanding. Chimeric antigen receptor technology (CAR-T) has revolutionized the management of these patients. Novel bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates, used as chemotherapy-free single agents or in combination with other novel therapeutics, have been quickly introduced into the real-world setting. With such a paradigm shift, patients have an improved chance of better outcomes with unpredictable complete remission rates. Additionally, the excellent tolerance of new antibodies targeting B-cell lymphomas is another motivation to broaden its use in relapsed and refractory patients. With the increasing number of approved therapy approaches, future research needs to focus on optimizing the sequence and developing new combination strategies for these antibodies, both among themselves and with other agents. Clinical, pathological, and genetic risk profiling can assist in identifying which patients are most likely to benefit from these costly therapeutic options. However, new combinations may lead to new side effects, which we must learn to deal with. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on several innovative antibodies for the precision management of large B-cell lymphoma. It explores various treatment strategies, such as CAR-T vs. ASCT, naked antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and bispecific T-cell engagers, as well as discussing the challenges and future perspectives of novel treatment strategies. We also delve into resistance mechanisms and factors that may affect decision making. Moreover, each section provides a detailed analysis of the available literature and ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyad Dada
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Jeddah 21499, Saudi Arabia; ; Tel.: +966-2-6677777 (ext. 64065); Fax: +966-2-6677777 (ext. 64030)
- College of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
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Payload diversification: a key step in the development of antibody-drug conjugates. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:3. [PMID: 36650546 PMCID: PMC9847035 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01397-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) is a fast moving class of targeted biotherapeutics that currently combines the selectivity of monoclonal antibodies with the potency of a payload consisting of cytotoxic agents. For many years microtubule targeting and DNA-intercalating agents were at the forefront of ADC development. The recent approval and clinical success of trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu®) and sacituzumab govitecan (Trodelvy®), two topoisomerase 1 inhibitor-based ADCs, has shown the potential of conjugating unconventional payloads with differentiated mechanisms of action. Among future developments in the ADC field, payload diversification is expected to play a key role as illustrated by a growing number of preclinical and clinical stage unconventional payload-conjugated ADCs. This review presents a comprehensive overview of validated, forgotten and newly developed payloads with different mechanisms of action.
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8
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Câmara AB, Brandão IA. The Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment and Side Effects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2023; 19:PRA-EPUB-128894. [PMID: 36650656 DOI: 10.2174/1574892818666230117151757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This paper aims to review studies regarding side effects found during Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma treatment, to suggest the drug class most associated with these effects, as well as the most prevalent side effect grade. METHODS This review is registered in PROSPERO (IDCRD42022295774) and followed the PICOS strategy and PRISMA guidelines. The search was carried out in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Scientific Electronic Library Online, and DOAJ. Medical Subject Headings Terms were used and quantitative studies with conclusive results regarding side effects during the non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment were selected. Patent information was obtained from google patents. RESULTS Monoclonal antibodies were the main drug class associated with side effects during NHL therapy. The combination of Rituximab (Rituxan®; patent EP1616572B) and iInotuzumab (Besponsa®; patent EP1504035B3) was associated with a higher incidence of thrombocytopenia (p<0.05), while the combination of Rituximab and Venetoclax (Venclexta®; patent CN107089981A) was associated with a higher incidence of neutropenia (p<0.05) when compared to Bendamustine combinations (Treanda ™; patent US20130253025A1). Meta-analysis revealed a high prevalence of grade 3-4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in men. Finally, Americans and Canadians experienced a higher prevalence of these side effects, when compared to others nationalities (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Patents regarding the use of monoclonal antibodies in NHL treatment were published in the last year. Monoclonal antibodies associated with neutropenia (grade 3-4) and thrombocytopenia, especially in North American men treated for NHL, and with an average age of 62 years demonstrated importance in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Barros Câmara
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
| | - Igor Augusto Brandão
- Bioinformatics Multidisciplinary Environment, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
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Maecker H, Jonnalagadda V, Bhakta S, Jammalamadaka V, Junutula JR. Exploration of the antibody-drug conjugate clinical landscape. MAbs 2023; 15:2229101. [PMID: 37639687 PMCID: PMC10464553 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2023.2229101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) field has undergone a renaissance, with substantial recent developmental investment and subsequent drug approvals over the past 6 y. In November 2022, ElahereTM became the latest ADC to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To date, over 260 ADCs have been tested in the clinic against various oncology indications. Here, we review the clinical landscape of ADCs that are currently FDA approved (11), agents currently in clinical trials but not yet approved (164), and candidates discontinued following clinical testing (92). These clinically tested ADCs are further analyzed by their targeting tumor antigen(s), linker, payload choices, and highest clinical stage achieved, highlighting limitations associated with the discontinued drug candidates. Lastly, we discuss biologic engineering modifications preclinically demonstrated to improve the therapeutic index that if incorporated may increase the proportion of molecules that successfully transition to regulatory approval.
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10
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Barreca M, Lang N, Tarantelli C, Spriano F, Barraja P, Bertoni F. Antibody-drug conjugates for lymphoma patients: preclinical and clinical evidences. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:763-794. [PMID: 36654819 PMCID: PMC9834635 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a recent, revolutionary approach for malignancies treatment, designed to provide superior efficacy and specific targeting of tumor cells, compared to systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy. Their structure combines highly potent anti-cancer drugs (payloads or warheads) and monoclonal antibodies (Abs), specific for a tumor-associated antigen, via a chemical linker. Because the sensitive targeting capabilities of monoclonal Abs allow the direct delivery of cytotoxic payloads to tumor cells, these agents leave healthy cells unharmed, reducing toxicity. Different ADCs have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of a wide range of malignant conditions, both as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy, including for lymphoma patients. Over 100 ADCs are under preclinical and clinical investigation worldwide. This paper it provides an overview of approved and promising ADCs in clinical development for the treatment of lymphoma. Each component of the ADC design, their mechanism of action, and the highlights of their clinical development progress are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilia Barreca
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Noémie Lang
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Tarantelli
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Filippo Spriano
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Paola Barraja
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Bertoni
- Institute of Oncology Research, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, USI, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
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11
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Atar D, Mast AS, Scheuermann S, Ruoff L, Seitz CM, Schlegel P. Adapter CAR T Cell Therapy for the Treatment of B-Lineage Lymphomas. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102420. [PMID: 36289682 PMCID: PMC9599140 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CD19CAR T cells facilitate a transformational treatment in various relapsed and refractory aggressive B-lineage cancers. In general, encouraging response rates have been observed in B-lineage-derived non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas treated with CD19CAR T cells. The major cause of death in heavily pretreated NHL patients is lymphoma progression and lymphoma recurrence. Inefficient CAR T cell therapy is the result of the limited potency of the CAR T cell product or is due to loss of the targeted antigen. Target antigen loss has been identified as the key factor that can be addressed stringently by dual- or multitargeted CAR T cell approaches. We have developed a versatile adapter CAR T cell technology (AdCAR) that allows multitargeting. Screening of three different B-lineage lymphoma cell lines has revealed distinct immune target profiles. Cancer-specific adapter molecule combinations may be utilized to prevent antigen immune escape. In general, CD19CAR T cells become non-functional in CD19 negative lymphoma subsets; however, AdCAR T cells can be redirected to alternative target antigens beyond CD19, such as CD20, CD22, CD79B, and ROR-1. The capability to flexibly shift CAR specificity by exchanging the adapter molecule’s specificity broadens the application and significantly increases the anti-leukemic and anti-lymphoma activity. The clinical evaluation of AdCAR T cells in lymphoma as a new concept of CAR T cell immunotherapy may overcome treatment failure due to antigen immune escape in monotargeted conventional CAR T cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Atar
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Anna-Sophia Mast
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sophia Scheuermann
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 Image-Guided and Functional Instructed Tumor Therapy (iFIT), University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Lara Ruoff
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin Seitz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 Image-Guided and Functional Instructed Tumor Therapy (iFIT), University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Patrick Schlegel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence 2180 Image-Guided and Functional Instructed Tumor Therapy (iFIT), University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Cellular Cancer Therapeutics Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney 2145, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Sydney 2145, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Papageorgiou SG, Thomopoulos TP, Liaskas A, Vassilakopoulos TP. Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Moving beyond Rituximab. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1917. [PMID: 35454825 PMCID: PMC9026383 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although rituximab has revolutionized the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a significant proportion of patients experience refractory disease or relapse early after the end of treatment. The lack of effective treatment options in the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting had made the prognosis of these patients dismal. The initial enthusiasm for novel anti-CD20 antibodies had been short-lived as they failed to prove their superiority to rituximab. Therefore, research has focused on developing novel agents with a unique mechanism of action. Among them, two antibody-drug conjugates, namely polatuzumab vedotin (PolaV) and loncastuximab tesirine, along with tafasitamab, an anti-CD19 bioengineered antibody, have been approved for the treatment of R/R DLBCL. Whereas PolaV has been FDA and EMA approved, EMA has not approved loncastuximab tesirine and tafasitamab yet. Results from randomized trials, as well as real-life data for PolaV have been promising. Novel agents as bispecific antibodies bridging CD3 on T-cells to CD20 have shown very promising results in clinical trials and are expected to gain approval for treatment of R/R DLBCL soon. As the therapeutic armamentarium against DLBCL is expanding, an improvement in survival of patients with R/R and higher cure rates might soon become evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios G. Papageorgiou
- Hematology Unit, Second Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine and Research Institute, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University General Hospital “Attikon”, 18120 Athens, Greece; (S.G.P.); (T.P.T.)
| | - Thomas P. Thomopoulos
- Hematology Unit, Second Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine and Research Institute, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, University General Hospital “Attikon”, 18120 Athens, Greece; (S.G.P.); (T.P.T.)
| | - Athanasios Liaskas
- Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theodoros P. Vassilakopoulos
- Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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