Fucosyl-GM1 ganglioside (Fuc-GM1) (Fuc-GM1)

Fucosyl-GM1 (Fuc-GM1) is a tumor-associated ganglioside that is highly and specifically expressed on the surface of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells (Ponzebbe et al., 2020, J Thorac Oncol). While it is prevalent in SCLC, its expression in normal adult tissues is extremely restricted, primarily limited to a small subset of peripheral neurons and the gallbladder (Zhang et al., 1997, Int J Cancer). This high tumor-to-normal tissue ratio makes it an exceptionally specific target for oncological interventions. As a glycolipid, Fuc-GM1 is involved in cell-cell recognition and the modulation of signal transduction pathways within the cell membrane. Its presence on the cell surface makes it an ideal target for targeted immunotherapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and cancer vaccines. For instance, the monoclonal antibody BMS-986012 is designed to bind Fuc-GM1 and trigger immune-mediated destruction of cancer cells via antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) (Chu et al., 2021, Cancer Immunol Res). Clinical studies have explored Fuc-GM1-KLH vaccines to stimulate an endogenous immune response against SCLC cells (Krug et al., 2004, Clin Cancer Res). Targeting Fuc-GM1 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for SCLC, a malignancy characterized by rapid growth and poor prognosis.

Other names

Fucosyl-monosialoganglioside GM1Fucosyl-GM1IV3FucII3Neu5AcGg4CerFucosyl-GM1 glycolipidFucosyl-GM1 ganglioside

Monoclonal antibodies targeting Fuc-GM1 induce tumor cell death through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) (Chu et al., 2021, Cancer Immunol Res).