HuMax-CD38 shows unique property in preclinical studies

07-10-2006

Genmab, A/S, announced that HuMax-CD38 was shown to inhibit the enzymatic activity of the CD38 molecule in preclinical studies, which may may contribute to its effectiveness in killing both primary multiple myeloma and plasma cell leukemia cells.

HuMax-CD38 is a fully human antibody that targets the CD38 molecule which is highly expressed on the surface of multiple myeloma tumor cells. In previous preclinical studies, HuMax-CD38 was more effective in triggering the immune system killing mechanisms Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity and Complement Dependent Cytotoxicity, than other human CD38 antibodies when tested on multiple myeloma tumors. HuMax-CD38 also potently killed tumor cells from a patient with a CD38/138 positive plasma cell leukemia which was refractory to chemotherapy at the time of analysis. Furthermore, treatment with HuMax-CD38 slowed tumor growth in both preventive and therapeutic settings in SCID mice in animal models.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells and accounts for approximately 1% of all cancers. The incidence of multiple myeloma is 5.2 per 100,000 people corresponding to 15,270 new cases in the U.S. in 2004. In the U.S., approximately 11,000 deaths each year are related to multiple myeloma. At present, no cure is available, and the mean survival is approximately 3 years from time of diagnosis.

"We are pleased with the unique qualities of HuMax-CD38, which continues to show promising results in preclinical studies," said Lisa N. Drakeman, PhD, CEO of Genmab.

These data were to be presented by Dr. Paul Parren, vice president, research and technology of Genmab on June 10, 2006 at "The CD38 Ectoenzyme Family: Advances in Basic Science and Clinical Practice" conference in Torino, Italy.

Genmab, A/S, is a biotechnology company that creates and develops human antibodies for the treatment of life-threatening and debilitating diseases. Genmab has numerous products in development to treat cancer, infectious disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions, and intends to continue assembling a broad portfolio of new therapeutic products.

This article was prepared by Clinical Oncology Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2006, Clinical Oncology Week via NewsRx.com.