ISSN:
1569-8041
Keywords:
B cells
;
CD20
;
core protein
;
dexamethasone
;
immunotherapy
;
interferon-gamma
;
Muc-1
;
multiple myeloma
;
plasma cells
;
Rituximab
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Background:In view of the successful use of serotherapy in manyB-cell malignancies, we and others have sought to identify tumor selectiveantigens for the serotherapy of plasma cell dyscrasias (PCD) includingmultiple myeloma (MM), and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM). We recentlyidentified Muc-1 core protein as a MM selective antigen. Though Muc-1 coreprotein is abundantly expressed on most MM plasma cells, expression of thisantigen can be absent, or weak on some plasma cells which could potentiallyresult in the selection of Muc-1 core protein negative clones followingserotherapy of PCD. In addition to Muc-1 core protein, we have also beenexamining the use of CD20 directed serotherapy for PCD. Design:As part of these efforts, we recently initiated a phaseII clinical trial examining the use of Rituximab (Rituxan, MabThera) as asingle agent in MM patients; as well several WM patients have been treatedwith Rituximab at our Institutions. Results:In previous studies, we have shown that CD20 isabundantly expressed on the plasma cells of most WM patients; in contrast,CD20 is expressed on plasma cells from a minority of MM patients, and in thesepatients expression of CD20 can be weak or heterogeneous with both CD20+ andCD20− plasma cells present. As such, we have sought out clinicallyuseful inducers of Muc-1 core protein, and of CD20 on malignant plasma cells. Conclusions:These efforts resulted in the identification ofdexamethasone (Dex) as a potent inducer of Muc-1 core protein on MM plasmacells, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) as a potent inducer of CD20 on MMplasma cells and B-cells. Importantly, these agents induced their respectiveantigens at pharmacologically achievable doses.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1008377727061
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