Lumiliximab

Lumiliximab is a monoclonal antibody designed for the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. It was developed by Biogen Idec, a biotechnology company based in the United States. Lumiliximab works by targeting a specific protein found on the surface of B cells, known as CD23, and inducing cell death.

Mechanism of Action

Lumiliximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD23 protein. This protein is overexpressed in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia, making it a suitable target for therapy. By binding to CD23, Lumiliximab triggers a process known as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, which leads to the destruction of the cancer cells.

Clinical Trials

Lumiliximab has been tested in several clinical trials. In a Phase II trial, it was combined with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab, a regimen known as FCR. The results showed that the addition of Lumiliximab to FCR did not improve the overall response rate or progression-free survival compared to FCR alone.

Development and Approval

The development of Lumiliximab was discontinued in 2008 after it failed to meet its primary endpoint in a Phase III trial. Despite this, the drug has been the subject of ongoing research, particularly in combination with other therapies.

See Also

• Monoclonal antibodies
• B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• CD23
• Biogen Idec