Abstract: We tested the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a recombinant bispecific immunotoxin that recognizes both EGFRwt and tumor-specific EGFRvIII receptors. A single chain antibody was cloned from a hybridoma and fused to toxin, carrying a C-terminal peptide which increases retention within cells. The binding affinity and specificity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin for the EGFRwt and the EGFRvIII proteins was measured. In vitro cytotoxicity was measured. In vivo activity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin was evaluated in subcutaneous models and compared to that of an established monospecific immunotoxin. In our preclinical studies, the bispecific recombinant immunotoxin, exhibited significant potential for treating brain tumors.

Abstract: We tested the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a recombinant bispecific immunotoxin that recognizes both EGFRwt and tumor-specific EGFRvIII receptors. A single chain antibody was cloned from a hybridoma and fused to toxin, carrying a C-terminal peptide which increases retention within cells. The binding affinity and specificity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin for the EGFRwt and the EGFRvIII proteins was measured. In vitro cytotoxicity was measured. In vivo activity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin was evaluated in subcutaneous models and compared to that of an established monospecific immunotoxin. In our preclinical studies, the bispecific recombinant immunotoxin, exhibited significant potential for treating brain tumors.

Abstract: The present invention provides immunoassays for detecting a tumor in a subject, comprising producing an antibody that specifically binds to tenascin, contacting the antibody with a biological sample suspected of containing tumor cells and determining the binding of the antibody to the biological sample. The present invention further provides methods of identifying a subject for treatment of a tumor. Kits for direct or indirect immunohistochemical or immunocytochemical assays are also provided. A novel polyclonal antibody that binds to tenascin domain TNfn C-D is further provided.