Catumaxomab

Catumaxomab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of malignant ascites, a type of fluid accumulation in the abdomen caused by cancer. It is administered intravenously and works by targeting tumor cells that are present in the ascitic fluid. The antibody binds to the tumor cells, triggering an immune response that leads to their destruction. It is believed that this treatment reduces the recurrence of ascites and improves the patient's quality of life.

Catumaxomab, also known by the brand name Removab, is a trifunctional monoclonal antibody used to treat a specific condition called malignant ascites. Here's a detailed description:

What is it?

• Catumaxomab is a lab-made protein engineered to target and destroy cancer cells.
• It's classified as a trifunctional antibody because it has three binding sites that allow it to interact with different cells in the immune system.

How does it work?

• Catumaxomab works through a multi-step process:
  1. Targeting: It binds to two specific molecules on the surface of cells:
     • EpCAM: This molecule is overexpressed on most epithelial carcinomas (cancers originating from the lining of organs).
     • CD3: This molecule is present on mature T-cells, a type of immune cell that can attack and destroy cancer cells.
  2. Immune cell activation: By binding to both EpCAM and CD3, Catumaxomab brings T-cells closer to cancer cells, facilitating their interaction and activation.
  3. Cancer cell destruction: Activated T-cells can then directly kill the cancer cells through various mechanisms, including:
     • Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC): T-cells release chemicals that attract other immune cells to attack the cancer cells.
     • Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC): The binding of Catumaxomab to cancer cells activates the complement system, a group of proteins in the blood that helps destroy targeted cells.

What is it used for?

• Catumaxomab is specifically approved for the treatment of malignant ascites in adults with EpCAM-positive epithelial carcinomas.
• Malignant ascites is a condition where fluid accumulates in the abdomen (peritoneal cavity) due to the presence of cancer cells.
• It is typically used when standard therapies are not available or no longer effective.