Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase-specific antibody, prodrugs for the treatment of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase-expressing tumors, and methods of administration thereof

摘要

An antibody is provided which binds to active GGT, and can identify tissues which express GGT on their surface. Many solid tumors express GGT on their surface. Individuals identified with such tumors may be treated with inactivated prodrugs of chemotherapeutic agents at local dosage levels substantially above the maximum dosage levels currently permitted due to side effect limitations. The prodrugs are comprised of chemotherapeutic agents rendered inactive by the attachment of a gamma-glutamyl group thereto. The gamma-glutamyl group is cleaved by GGT on the surface of solid tumor cells expressing GGT, and thus active only locally against the tumor. Side effects are suppressed. The antibody is used to identify solid tumors that are candidates for this treatment, as well as to identify tissues which express GGT and which must therefore be the basis of selection criteria of various available chemotherapeutic agents.