As an oncology provider St. Louis Cancer Center, I’m excited to share with our patients and their families an emerging and promising area of cancer treatment known as bispecific antibodies (BsAbs). These innovative therapies are changing the landscape of cancer treatment and bringing hope to many.
What Are Bispecific Antibodies?
Bispecific antibodies are a type of immunotherapy that can bind to two different targets simultaneously, unlike traditional monoclonal antibodies that target only one. By binding to both cancer cells and T cells (a type of immune cell), BsAbs work as a bridge between the two, guiding the immune system to recognize and destroy the cancer cells. This targeted approach enhances the body’s natural ability to fight cancer.
How Are Bispecific Antibodies Different?
1. Targeted Action: BsAbs target specific proteins on cancer cells and T cells, bringing them together to allow T cells to effectively attack the cancer cells.
2. Dual Binding: By binding to two different targets simultaneously, BsAbs increase the precision and effectiveness of the treatment.
3. Diverse Applications: Different BsAbs can be designed to target various types of cancer, offering a more personalized approach to treatment.
St. Louis Cancer Care’s Bispecific Antibody Program
We are proud to announce that St. Louis Cancer Care is developing a program to bring these advanced treatments to our patients. One promising treatment we are currently working with is Epcoritamab, also known by its brand name Epkinly.
Epcoritamab for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Epcoritamab is a monoclonal antibody designed to treat diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in patients whose disease has progressed after two other treatments. It works by binding to CD3 on T cells and CD20 on B cells, guiding the immune system to target and kill cancer cells more effectively.
In clinical studies, Epcoritamab has shown significant effectiveness in treating diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Patients who have received this treatment have experienced meaningful responses, with some achieving complete remission. This offers new hope to those who have struggled with other treatments.
Amivantamab for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Amivantamab is a monoclonal antibody developed to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with specific genetic mutations in the EGFR and MET genes. By targeting these receptors, amivantamab disrupts signaling pathways that cancer cells rely on for growth and survival. This dual-targeting mechanism enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, providing a new avenue of treatment for patients with limited options.
In clinical trials, amivantamab has demonstrated promising results in patients with NSCLC, particularly those who have not responded to prior therapies. The treatment has led to significant tumor shrinkage and, in some cases, complete remission. These outcomes are particularly encouraging for patients with EGFR and MET mutations, offering a much-needed alternative to existing therapies and improving overall prognosis.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to develop our program and work with innovative treatments like Epcoritamab, our goal is to provide our patients with access to the latest advances in cancer care. We believe that by integrating these cutting-edge therapies into our practice, we can offer more targeted, effective, and personalized treatment options for our patients.
We will keep you updated on our progress as we expand our bispecific antibody program. If you have any questions about this new treatment or any other aspect of your care, please feel free to contact our team at St. Louis Cancer Care. We are here to support you on your journey to better health.
Stay strong,
St. Louis Cancer Care
