Definition

A fully human, second-generation, nonfucosylated monoclonal antibody directed against the cell surface receptor CD30 with potential immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody MDX-1401 specifically binds to the CD30 antigen, which may result in a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against CD30-expressing tumor cells. CD30, a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily, is expressed on activated lymphocytes transiently and is constitutively expressed in hematologic malignancies including Hodgkin’s disease and some T-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. Compared to conventional antibodies, deletion of fucose molecules on the antibody backbone, as is done in MDX-1401, may result in an increased affinity for Fc receptors and an enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).