The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Develops Novel Antibody-Toxin Conjugate
Researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have developed an innovative antibody-toxin conjugate (ATC) designed to stimulate the immune system to eliminate tumours.
This new approach combines the advantages of both antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and immunotherapies.
ADCs target specific proteins on cancer cells to deliver chemotherapy directly, whereas the ATC takes a different approach. It binds to the CD47 protein, a common tumour defence mechanism, and delivers a bacterial toxin instead of chemotherapy.
This marks cancer cells for destruction, allowing immune cells to engulf them and activate a broader immune response.
Preclinical studies in breast cancer and melanoma models demonstrate the ATC’s ability to train the immune system to recognise and attack tumours more effectively.
The immune response remains active for at least two months, suggesting potential long-term protection against recurrence.
This approach could also complement radiation therapy, as many tumours increase CD47 production to evade immune attacks.
Researchers are working on expanding this method to target other tumour-specific proteins, aiming to develop ATCs that address a broader range of cancers.
The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and other organisations.
