Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) by Monoclonal Antibodies

Creative Biolabs has organized a staff of outstanding scientists who have engaged in the research of reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for many years. Our seasoned scientists are committed to providing overall solutions for TAM reprogramming by mAbs, focusing on innovative research. Our multidisciplinary scientists will work together closely to address these scientific and technical challenges.

mAbs for TAM Repolarization

Repolarizing TAMs to perform anti-tumoral functions seems to be the best approach for cancer therapy. MAbs are of key interest to create strategies for reprogramming TAMs from a pro-tumoral (M2-like) to an anti-tumor (M1-like) phenotype and thereby induce immune effects that can bring about tumor regression. M2 macrophages may be repolarized to M1 macrophages by altering specific cytokines in the tumor. For example, inhibition of CSF-CSF1R axis using anti-CSF1R mAbs has been considered for repolarization of M2 like macrophages to M1 like macrophages. Besides cytokines, chemokines also have an important role in TAM biology. Carlumab (CNTO88), an anti-CCL2 mAb, has shown to be efficient in preventing the development and progression of several tumors. Moreover, upregulating phagocytic activity, which is a characteristic of M1 macrophages, is facilitating antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis or inhibition of CD47-signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) signaling. Antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis is dependent on the interaction between Fc domain of antibody and Fc receptor on cancer cells. For instance, rituximab and trastuzumab can promote the phagocytic activity of macrophages thus inhibiting tumor development. To promote the phagocytic activity of macrophages, mAbs have been designed against CD47 and SIRPα, thus, eradicating tumor cells and may be used as an immunotherapeutic drug.

Fig.1 Main roles of tumor-associated macrophages in tumorigenesis. (Chen, 2019)

Reprogramming TAMs by mAbs

mAb-based therapies are often designed to trigger the cytotoxic activity of effector lymphocytes, leading to mAb-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). However, recent reports highlight the emerging use of mAbs for TAM reprogramming. This highlights the importance of mAbs being used in macrophage development. The mAb treatment can lead to alteration of the composition of TAMs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) into a pro-inflammatory population, thereby rendering the tumor immunogenic. Creative Biolabs combines industry-leading expertise with an innovative Macrophage Therapeutics Development Platform to provide highly customized solutions to meet our clients' basic and clinical research demands in TAM reprogramming by mAbs.

Creative Biolabs is well equipped and versed in reprogramming TAMs by mAbs. We are glad to serve our global clients with professionalism and expertise in this field. For more detailed information, please feel free to contact us or directly send us an inquiry.

Reference

1. Chen, Y.; et al. Tumor-associated macrophages: an accomplice in solid tumor progression. Journal of biomedical science. 2019, 26(1):1-3.