PDL192 is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to the TWEAK (tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis) receptor (TweakR), also known as Fn14 or TNFRSF12A, a cell surface protein with homology to the family of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors. PDL192 appears to have dual mechanisms of action, where the binding to the target results in a biological signal detrimental to the cancer cell.  In addition, PDL192 may be able to recruit the immune system to also mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity to help destroy the tumor.

Our scientists have demonstrated that TweakR is over-expressed in a number of solid tumor indications including pancreatic, colon, lung, renal, breast and head and neck cancers, and ongoing scientific work will help prioritize those tumors for therapeutic testing.  In preclinical studies, PDL192 also has been shown to significantly inhibit tumor growth of various models of human cancer in mice. We have initiated a phase 1 dose escalation program in solid tumors following the successful completion of an investigational new drug application (IND).