CDX-3379 + cetuximab

CDX-3379 + cetuximab is a combination therapy investigated for the treatment of advanced, recurrent, or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), particularly in patients who have become resistant to prior cetuximab therapy. CDX-3379 (formerly KTN-3379) is a human immunoglobulin G1 lambda monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to a unique epitope on ErbB3 (HER3), locking it in an inactive state and inhibiting both ligand-dependent and ligand-independent ErbB3 signaling. This blockade prevents ErbB3 phosphorylation, thereby inhibiting cellular proliferation and survival of tumor cells expressing ErbB3[1][5][6]. Cetuximab is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor already approved for use in HNSCC. The rationale for combining these agents stems from evidence that upregulation of ErbB3 signaling can mediate resistance to EGFR-targeted therapies like cetuximab; thus, dual inhibition may overcome this resistance mechanism[3][4]. Clinical trials showed some antitumor activity with this combination but development was discontinued due to risk-benefit concerns[2].

Other names

CDX-3379 + cetuximab