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Journal of Neuro-Oncology
Published in: Journal of Neuro-Oncology 2/2013

01-09-2013 | Topic Review

Diphtheria toxin-based targeted toxin therapy for brain tumors

Authors: Yan Michael Li, Daniel A. Vallera, Walter A. Hall

Published in: Journal of Neuro-Oncology | Issue 2/2013

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Abstract

Targeted toxins (TT) are molecules that bind cell surface antigens or receptors such as the transferrin or interleukin-13 receptor that are overexpressed in cancer. After internalization, the toxin component kills the cell. These recombinant proteins consist of an antibody or carrier ligand coupled to a modified plant or bacterial toxin such as diphtheria toxin (DT). These fusion proteins are very effective against brain cancer cells that are resistant to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. TT have shown an acceptable profile for toxicity and safety in animal studies and early clinical trials have demonstrated a therapeutic response. This review summarizes the characteristics of DT-based TT, the animal studies in malignant brain tumors and early clinical trial results. Obstacles to the successful treatment of brain tumors include poor penetration into tumor, the immune response to DT and cancer heterogeneity.
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Metadata
Title
Diphtheria toxin-based targeted toxin therapy for brain tumors
Authors
Yan Michael Li
Daniel A. Vallera
Walter A. Hall
Publication date
01-09-2013
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Neuro-Oncology / Issue 2/2013
Print ISSN: 0167-594X
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7373
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-013-1157-8

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