Work

A guide to taming a toxin – recombinant immunotoxins constructed from Pseudomonas exotoxin A for the treatment of cancer

Year: 2011

Type: review

Abstract: Pseudomonas exotoxin A (PE) is a highly toxic protein secreted by the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The modular structure and corresponding mechanism of action of PE make it amenable to extensive modifications that can redirect its potent cytotoxicity from disease to a therapeutic function. In combination with a variety of artificial targeting elements, such as receptor ligands and antibody fragments, PE becomes a selective agent for the elimination of specific cell populations. This review summarizes our current understanding of PE, its intoxication pathway, and the ongoing efforts to convert this toxin into a treatment for cancer.

Source: FEBS Journal

DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2011.08182.x

Authors: John E. Weldon, Ira Pastan

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research

Language: English

Topic: Toxin Mechanisms and Immunotoxins

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute