Antigenics other research news
AGEN researchers and collaborators published in Nature Immunology the identification of CD91 (also known as alpha(2)-macroglobulin receptor or low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein LRP1) as the cell surface receptor for the cellular heat shock protein (Hsp) gp96. Receptor-mediated uptake of gp96 into dendritic (antigen-presenting) cells is thought to stimulate immune responses against cellular antigens bound by gp96. The researchers suggested that CD91 could be a pro-inflammatory sensor for necrotic cell death, through which gp96 is released into the extracellular space.
AGEN's Oncophage, which is gp96 purified from autologous tumor cells, is in international Phase III testing to treat renal cell carcinoma. The company also said that it is identifying compounds that modulate the activity of CD91 to treat cancer and infectious and autoimmune diseases. ...