Protein FAM53B (219aa variant) (FAM53B)

FAM53B-219aa is a tumor-specific antigen corresponding to the 219-amino acid isoform (Isoform 2) of the Protein FAM53B, also known as KIAA0102 (UniProt Q6P2N0). The full-length FAM53B protein plays a critical role in the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway by regulating the nuclear localization of beta-catenin, thereby influencing the transcription of genes involved in cell growth and differentiation (PubMed: 20702588). The 219aa variant is specifically targeted in cancer immunotherapy due to its preferential expression in malignant tissues, particularly in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is one of the six tumor-associated antigens included in the BNT116 mRNA vaccine (FixVac), which is designed to induce a robust cytotoxic T-cell response against tumor cells (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05142189). By utilizing mRNA technology, the vaccine enables the endogenous production and presentation of FAM53B-219aa, bypassing the need for direct protein delivery. This target represents a novel approach in precision oncology, aiming to enhance the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy lung cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Clinical development is ongoing to evaluate the safety and efficacy of targeting FAM53B-219aa in combination with other immunotherapies like checkpoint inhibitors.

Other names

KIAA0102Family with sequence similarity 53 member BFAM53B-219aaFAM53B isoform 2

BNT116 is an mRNA vaccine that encodes the FAM53B-219aa antigen; upon administration, it is translated by host cells and presented on MHC molecules to stimulate a specific T-cell mediated immune response against cancer cells expressing this antigen.