ZME-gelonin

ZME-gelonin is a recombinant immunotoxin consisting of the monoclonal antibody ZME-018 conjugated to the plant toxin gelonin. ZME-018 specifically recognizes the gp240 glycoprotein, which is highly expressed on the surface of more than 80% of human melanoma cell lines and fresh biopsy specimens. The mechanism of action involves the antibody targeting and binding to gp240-positive melanoma cells, delivering gelonin intracellularly, where the ribosome-inactivating activity of gelonin blocks protein synthesis, leading to cell death. This targeted immunotoxin approach aims to selectively kill tumor cells while minimizing toxicity to normal tissues. ZME-gelonin has shown antitumor activity and improved survival in preclinical mouse models of human melanoma. Preclinical development and characterization took place at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.