vartumab

Vartumab is an investigational single-chain variable fragment (scFv) monoclonal antibody developed by VAR2 Pharmaceuticals that specifically binds to oncofetal chondroitin sulfate (ofCS), a form of chondroitin sulfate rarely expressed in normal adult tissues but highly expressed in a broad range of solid tumors[3][5][7][9]. This binding enables highly tumor-selective targeting. Vartumab is currently being studied in two formats as an imaging agent (radiolabeled with zirconium-89 for immunoPET) and as a therapeutic platform for antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and T-cell engaging therapies in preclinical models[1][2][3][5][7][9]. In mouse models, Vartumab (including ADC formulations) demonstrated high tumor specificity and curative effects with minimal off-target toxicity[2][3][5]. Its primary indications under investigation are various solid tumors, with early clinical stage studies focused on biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and tumor uptake[1][3][7][9]. Development is led by VAR2 Pharmaceuticals, often in collaboration with TRACER for clinical imaging studies[1][3][5].

Other names

vartumabvartumabs