In short
Domvanalimab is an innovative immunotherapy drug currently being investigated in several clinical trials for the treatment of various types of cancer. This article provides an overview of ongoing research into domvanalimab's potential as a cancer treatment, either alone or in combination with other immunotherapy agents. The trials aim to evaluate its safety, efficacy, and optimal use in different cancer types and stages.
At a glance
- Drug Name
- Domvanalimab (AB154)
- Drug Type
- Humanized immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody
- Target
- TIGIT (T cell Immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains)
- Cancer Types Studied
- Non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, hepatobiliary cancers, rare cancers
- Administration
- Intravenous (IV) infusion
- Common Combinations
- Zimberelimab (anti-PD-1), Etrumadenant (A2aR and A2bR antagonist)
- Primary Outcomes Measured
- Safety, tolerability, progression-free survival, overall survival, objective response rate
- Trial Phases
- Phase 0/I, Phase II, Phase III
- Current Status
- Investigational, not yet approved for general use
What is Domvanalimab?
Domvanalimab (also known as AB154) is a new type of cancer drug called an immunotherapy. It is a humanized monoclonal antibody, which means it's a lab-made protein designed to target a specific part of the immune system. Domvanalimab is still being studied in clinical trials and is not yet approved for general use by regulatory agencies like the FDA.
How Does Domvanalimab Work?
Domvanalimab works by targeting a protein called TIGIT (T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains) that is found on certain immune cells. TIGIT acts as a "brake" on the immune system. By blocking TIGIT, domvanalimab aims to "release the brakes" and help the immune system fight cancer more effectively.
What Cancers is Domvanalimab Being Studied For?
Domvanalimab is being investigated for several types of cancer, including:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type of lung cancer
- Hepatobiliary cancers: These include cancers of the liver and bile ducts
- Melanoma: A type of skin cancer
- Bladder cancer: Specifically, muscle-invasive bladder cancer
- Gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers: Cancers of the stomach and where the stomach meets the esophagus
How is Domvanalimab Given?
Domvanalimab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it's delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. In most studies, it's given every 3 weeks (also called Q3W). The exact dose can vary, but one common dose being studied is 1200 mg every 3 weeks.
Domvanalimab in Combination Therapies
Many clinical trials are studying domvanalimab in combination with other cancer drugs. Some common combinations include:
- Domvanalimab + Zimberelimab: Zimberelimab (also known as AB122) is another immunotherapy drug that targets a protein called PD-1
- Domvanalimab + Zimberelimab + Etrumadenant: Etrumadenant (also known as AB928) is a drug that targets proteins called A2aR and A2bR
- Domvanalimab + Durvalumab: Durvalumab is another immunotherapy drug
These combinations are being studied because researchers believe they may work better together than any single drug alone.
Potential Side Effects
As domvanalimab is still in clinical trials, all of its potential side effects are not yet known. However, common side effects of immunotherapy drugs can include:
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Fever
More serious side effects can occur if the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body. Researchers are carefully monitoring patients in clinical trials for any adverse events.
Ongoing Clinical Trials
There are several ongoing clinical trials studying domvanalimab. These trials are looking at how well the drug works, how safe it is, and how it affects the body (pharmacokinetics). Some trials are also collecting samples to study biomarkers, which are biological indicators that might help predict who will respond best to the treatment.
If you're interested in participating in a clinical trial for domvanalimab, talk to your oncologist. They can help you understand if you might be eligible for any ongoing trials and what participation would involve.