ImmTAC

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ImmTAC schematic diagram

ImmTAC (Immune mobilizing monoclonal T-cell receptors Against Cancer) are a novel class of biopharmaceuticals designed to treat cancer by harnessing the body's immune system. ImmTACs are engineered molecules that combine the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potent killing mechanism of T-cells.

Mechanism of Action

ImmTACs work by targeting cancer cells with high precision. They consist of two main components:

• A high-affinity T-cell receptor (TCR) that recognizes and binds to specific peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) complexes on the surface of cancer cells.
• An anti-CD3 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) that recruits and activates T-cells.

When an ImmTAC binds to a cancer cell, it brings a T-cell into close proximity with the cancer cell, leading to the activation of the T-cell. This results in the targeted killing of the cancer cell through the release of cytotoxic granules and the induction of apoptosis.

Development and Clinical Trials

ImmTACs are being developed by various biopharmaceutical companies. They are currently undergoing clinical trials to evaluate their safety and efficacy in treating different types of cancer, including melanoma, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer.

Advantages

ImmTACs offer several advantages over traditional cancer therapies:

• High specificity for cancer cells, reducing damage to healthy tissues.
• Ability to target intracellular antigens presented on the cell surface by MHC molecules.
• Potential to overcome immune evasion mechanisms employed by cancer cells.

Challenges

Despite their potential, ImmTACs face several challenges:

• The need for precise identification of suitable target antigens.
• Potential for off-target effects and toxicity.
• Complex manufacturing processes.

Related Pages

• Cancer immunotherapy
• Monoclonal antibody
• T-cell receptor
• Major histocompatibility complex
• Apoptosis
• Cytotoxic T cell

See Also

• Biopharmaceutical
• Immunotherapy
• Oncology