Definition

A human immunoglobulin G1-kappa (IgG1k) monoclonal antibody directed against the cell surface glycoprotein CD38, with immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, daratumumab targets and binds to CD38 expressed on tumor cells. This triggers direct cell killing, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), antibody-dependent cell mediated phagocytosis (ADCP) and antibody-mediated complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) in CD38-expressing tumor cells. In addition, binding to CD38 by daratumumab depletes CD38-expressing immunosuppressive regulatory T and B cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). CD38, a type II transmembrane glycoprotein, is present on various immune cells and hematologic malignancies.