Rilotumumab

Rilotumumab is a monoclonal antibody designed for the treatment of cancer. It specifically targets the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met pathway, which is often implicated in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Rilotumumab binds to HGF, preventing it from activating the c-Met receptor, which can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis.

Development and Clinical Trials

Rilotumumab was developed as part of a broader effort to target the HGF/c-Met pathway, which is active in many types of cancers, including stomach cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. Clinical trials for rilotumumab initially showed promise in treating patients with advanced gastric cancer, particularly in combination with other chemotherapy agents.

However, subsequent studies raised concerns about the efficacy and safety of rilotumumab. A significant clinical trial, known as RILOMET-1, was halted early because data suggested an increase in the number of deaths and serious adverse events among patients receiving the drug compared to those receiving the standard treatment. As a result, further development of rilotumumab for gastric cancer was discontinued.

Mechanism of Action

Rilotumumab works by targeting and neutralizing HGF, the ligand for the c-Met receptor. By blocking this pathway, rilotumumab can potentially inhibit several key processes in tumor development and progression, including cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetic properties of rilotumumab, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, were studied in the context of its clinical trials. As with other monoclonal antibodies, rilotumumab is administered intravenously and has a relatively long half-life, which allows for dosing every few weeks in most therapeutic regimens.

Current Status

Following the discontinuation of its development for gastric cancer, research into the use of rilotumumab has significantly slowed. However, the underlying science of the HGF/c-Met pathway remains a significant area of interest in oncology, with other drugs targeting this pathway still under investigation.

See Also

• Monoclonal antibodies
• Cancer treatment
• Hepatocyte growth factor
• MET (gene)