What are the efficacy and functions of Zotuximab/Veloximab?

Zolbetuximab (zolbetuximab)-Vyloy is a new monoclonal antibody drug that belongs to the category of targeted immunotherapy drugs. It mainly exerts anti-tumor effects by recognizing and binding to CLDN18.2 (claudin 18 isoform 2) protein on the surface of tumor cells. CLDN18.2 is a tight junction protein that is usually expressed in gastrointestinal epithelial cells, but is abnormally highly expressed in malignant tumors such as some gastric cancers and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas, making it an ideal target. By targeting CLDN18.2, zotuximab is able to specifically recognize tumor cells and trigger tumor cell death through multiple mechanisms, including antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).

In clinical application, zotuximab has been studied for the treatment of solid tumors such as advanced gastric cancer and gastroesophageal junction cancer. Its main efficacy is reflected in delaying disease progression, improving patients' progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Compared with traditional chemotherapy, zotuximab provides a more precise targeting solution because it directly acts on tumor-specific expression of CLDN18.2 while having a relatively limited impact on normal tissues, thereby reducing systemic toxicity.

In addition, zotuximab can be used in combination with chemotherapy to enhance the anti-tumor effect. Combination regimens usually show synergistic effects in clinical trials, improving the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs, while also showing good tumor control capabilities when treated with single agents. In terms of side effects, common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and infusion-related reactions, but through standardized management and dose adjustment, most patients can tolerate it.

To sum up, zotuximab is a precisely targeted drug targetingCLDN18.2. It kills tumor cells through an immune-mediated mechanism. It is suitable for patients with CLDN18.2-positive gastric cancer and related digestive tract adenocarcinoma. It represents the modern trend of tumor treatment from traditional chemotherapy to targeted immunotherapy, and provides patients with new treatment options.

Reference materials:https://www.astellas.com/en/news/29401