Multiple unspecified tumor-associated antigens (TAAs)

Multiple unspecified tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) refer to a heterogeneous group of molecules expressed by malignant cells that can elicit an immune response. These antigens include neoantigens derived from somatic mutations, overexpressed self-antigens, and cancer-testis antigens [NCI Dictionary, 2024]. In the context of personalized medicine, these antigens are often not pre-defined but are identified through genomic sequencing of a patient's tumor to create custom vaccines or to select tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) [Nature, 2017]. This multi-antigen targeting strategy is designed to address tumor heterogeneity and reduce the likelihood of immune escape, which is a common failure mode for single-target therapies [Frontiers in Immunology, 2020]. Drugs interacting with this "target" include personalized mRNA vaccines like mRNA-4157 and cell therapies like Lifileucel, which rely on the immune system's ability to recognize a broad spectrum of these unspecified markers [FDA, 2024]. While highly specific to the tumor, the complexity of identifying and targeting these antigens presents significant manufacturing and regulatory challenges.

Other names

Tumor-associated antigensTAAsNeoantigensPatient-specific tumor antigensTumor-specific antigensTSAs

Induction of a polyclonal T-cell response against a broad spectrum of tumor-specific or tumor-associated epitopes to mediate tumor cell lysis [Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2018].