zalutumumab

A fully human IgG1 monoclonal antibody directed against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) with potential antineoplastic activity. Zalutumumab selectively binds to the EGFR receptor and blocks receptor binding of EGF and transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-a), which results in the disruption of EGFR-mediated cell signaling, cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in EGFR-expressing tumor cells. In addition, this agent triggers antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in EGFR-expressing cells. EGFR is a cell surface receptor tyrosine kinase, overexpressed on many cancer cells.