Two new antibodies that block the Notch protein receptors have been developed, which, after thorough investigation, have the potential to become effective anti-cancer drugs, according to scientists from the US in the journal Nature.
The Notch signaling pathway plays a key role in cell communication, regulating cell division, growth and differentiation. Disturbances in this signaling are at the root of many diseases, including most types of cancer.
Christian Siebel and colleagues from Genentech in California obtained highly specific antibodies for two of the four Notch membrane receptors – Notch1 and Notch2. Next, the researchers showed that the anti-Notch1 antibody they created blocks the growth of cancer in many different murine tumor models – it inhibits the growth of cancer cells and also prevents the formation of new blood vessels to nourish the tumor.
So far, only non-specific drugs blocking the action of various Notch receptors have been available, unfortunately the low specificity was associated with high toxicity and inhibition of other signaling pathways. The new antibodies are safer and highly specific and therefore clinically attractive and ideal for studying the role of individual Notch receptors. (PAP)