Cell-targeting fusion constructs containing recombinant gelonin

Abstract

Therapeutic agents capable of targeting tumor cells present as established tumors and micrometastases have already demonstrated their potential in clinical trials. Immunotoxins targeting hematological malignancies and solid tumors have additionally demonstrated excellent clinical activity. This review focuses on our design and characterization studies of constructs composed of recombinant gelonin toxin fused to either growth factors or single-chain antibodies targeting solid tumor cells, tumor vasculature or hematological malignancies. These agents demonstrate cytotoxicity at nanomolar or sub-nanomolar levels. All of these constructs display impressive selectivity and specificity for antigen-bearing target cells in vitro and in vivo and are excellent clinical trial candidates.