Aminopeptidase antibodies in mesothelioma: new wine deserves new sacks. Issue 5 (24th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Meerbeeck, Jan P.; Jansen, Gerrit; Giovannetti, Elisa; Peters, Godefridus J.
• Is Part Of: European respiratory journal. Volume 51:Issue 5(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-05-24
• Subjects: Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiration -- Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00817-2018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0903-1936

Abstract

In this issue of the European Respiratory Journal, Otsuki et al . [1] postulate that antibody targeting of aminopeptidase N (APN)/CD13 by MT95-4 might be a potential therapeutic approach for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Aminopeptidases have several functions, but their main role is breakdown of small peptides [2]. However, aminopeptidases may also play a role in angiogenesis. Angiogenesis signalling is an important hallmark of solid cancer pathophysiology in general and MPM in particular [3]. Several mechanisms are involved in this process; one of the most important factors is the shedding by the tumour of the ligand vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which then binds to the homologous receptor (VEGFR) on blood vessels. This signal leads to neo-angiogenesis: the sprouting of fragile, distorted and aberrant feeding vessels to the tumour. MPM has amongst the highest expression of VEGF and an increased vascularisation is a poor prognostic factor [4]. Aminopeptidase antibodies are a new class of agents in mesothelioma; their development will require strategic clinical trials. Exploring activity and efficacy according to old paradigms may lead to their disruptive characteristics being disregarded. http://ow.ly/3XLU30jUpqf