Mucin 5AC-associated tumor-selective glycan (NPC-1C antigen)

The Mucin 5AC-associated tumor-selective glycan is a specific carbohydrate-based epitope found on the Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) protein, which is aberrantly expressed and glycosylated in certain malignancies, particularly pancreatic and colorectal cancers (Patel et al., 2013, J Biomed Biotechnol). While native MUC5AC is a gel-forming mucin typically found in the respiratory and gastric mucosa, the tumor-selective variant possesses unique glycosylation patterns that distinguish it from the normal protein (Ganguly et al., 2023, MDPI). This glycan serves as a highly specific biomarker and therapeutic target, as it is largely absent from healthy tissues (Precision Biologics, 2024). The monoclonal antibody Ensituximab (also known as NPC-1C or NEO-102) was developed to target this specific glycoepitope, facilitating anti-tumor activity through mechanisms such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) (Imrpress, 2015). Clinical investigations have explored its utility in treating advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, often in combination with standard chemotherapy like gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel (Jefferson.edu, 2023). Despite its promise, clinical trials have shown mixed results regarding survival benefits, though the target remains a significant focus for precision oncology (JAMA Oncology, 2023).

Other names

Variant MUC5ACTumor-associated MUC5ACNEO-102 antigenEnsituximab targetMUC5AC glycoepitopeNPC-1C antigen

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) targeting the tumor-specific glycoform of MUC5AC (Patel et al., 2013).