Definition

A bivalent, bispecific fusion protein comprised of an anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) monoclonal antibody linked to a CD137-targeting anticalin with potential immunostimulatory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration of cinrebafusp alfa, CD137 clustering is promoted by bridging CD137-positive T-cells with HER2-positive tumor cells, leading to the recruitment of tumor antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). This may result in potent CTL-mediated lysis of HER2-expressing tumor cells. HER2 plays a key role in tumor cell proliferation and tumor vascularization. CD137 is a costimulatory immunoreceptor and a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). Anticalins are synthetic antigen-binding proteins derived from lipocalins. Structurally dissimilar to antibodies, anticalins are able to bind to smaller antigens and exhibit improved tissue penetration.