Development of bavituximab, a vascular targeting agent with immune-modulating properties, for lung cancer treatment

Immunotherapy. 2011 Aug;3(8):933-44. doi: 10.2217/imt.11.87.

Abstract

Bavituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody directed against the membrane phospholipid phosphatidylserine. Phosphatidylserine exposure is increased on endothelial cells and apoptotic cancer cells in solid tumors, allowing tumor-specific targeting of bavituximab. Bavituximab binding results in tumor vessel occlusion and enhanced antitumor immunity. Preclinical investigations have demonstrated efficacy as monotherapy and in combination with other modalities against multiple cancer types. Phase I clinical trials of bavituximab monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy in adults with refractory solid tumors have been completed. Phase II trials of bavituximab in combination with chemotherapy for the first- and second-line treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer are currently ongoing. This article summarizes the preclinical development and clinical experience with bavituximab in non-small-cell lung cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / administration & dosage*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / immunology
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / pathology
  • Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Endothelium, Vascular / drug effects
  • Endothelium, Vascular / immunology
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Lung Neoplasms / immunology
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology
  • Phosphatidylserines / immunology*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Phosphatidylserines
  • bavituximab