Definition

A humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the immune checkpoint regulator carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6; CEACAM-6; CD66c), with potential immune checkpoint inhibitory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, tinurilimab targets, binds to and blocks the activity of CEACAM6 expressed on various tumor and immune cells, including T cells. Blocking CEACAM6 signaling abrogates effector T-cell inhibition, activates antigen-specific T ymphocytes, increases secretion of T-cell cytokines and effector molecules, and enhances cytotoxic T-cell-mediated tumor cell lysis, which results in a reduction in tumor cell proliferation. CEACAM6, an immune checkpoint receptor, is associated with tumor-mediated immune suppression. Elevated CEACAM6 expression is associated with advanced tumor stages and poor prognosis.