Drug Targeting ENPP3 Is Active in Kidney-Renal Cell Cancer

by Dr. C.H. Weaver 1/2019

A novel antibody-drug conjugate that targets ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 3 (ENPP3) conjugated to monomethyl auristatin F has antitumor activity in renal cell cancer according to a study published in Clinical Cancer Research. (1)

The experimental drug known as AGS-16C3F was initially given to patients with very advanced renal cell carcinoma to determine the optimal dose. The study authors reported 3 partial responses and a tolerable side effect profile allowing them to conclude the drug should undergo continued evaluation in a phase II trial.

The main side effect reported was a reversible keratopathy. Overall approximately half of the patients reported eye-related adverse symptoms which were reversible. For patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma participation in clinical trials evaluating drugs that target ENPP3 should be considered.

Reference

1. Thompson JA, Motzer RJ, Molina AM, et al. Phase 1 trials of anti-ENPP3 antibody-drug conjugates in advanced refractory renal cell carcinomas. Clin Cancer Res. 2018;24(18):4399-4406.