Tumor-associated surface antigen A (TASA-A)

Tumor-associated surface antigen A is a generic designation for a broad class of molecules expressed on the plasma membrane of neoplastic cells. These antigens are typically present at low levels in normal tissues but become significantly upregulated or structurally altered during oncogenesis, making them ideal candidates for targeted cancer therapies. They encompass a diverse range of proteins, including growth factor receptors, cell adhesion molecules, and lineage-specific markers. In clinical practice, these antigens are targeted by monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and adoptive cell therapies to selectively eliminate tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue. However, because many of these antigens are also expressed at basal levels in vital organs, a primary therapeutic challenge is managing on-target, off-tumor toxicities.

Other names

Tumor-associated antigenTAATASATumor-associated surface antigenCancer-associated surface antigen

Targeted binding by monoclonal antibodies or CAR-T cells to induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), or direct apoptosis of malignant cells.