Evaluation and optimization of EGFR-based ADEPT, using non-invasive time-domain near-infrared fluorescence imaging

Ziele: The challenge facing cancer chemotherapy is the low selectivity to tumor cells versus normal cells. ADEPT (antibody-directed enzyme-prodrug therapy), in which a tumor specific antibody is used to carry a drug-activating enzyme to the tumor tissue, offers an attractive possibility to overcome this problem. Subsequent enzyme-mediated activation of nontoxic prodrugs to toxic drugs only within the tumor increases the specificity of treatment and decreases the drug toxicity in healthy tissues. Methode: The EGFR-targeting antibody Cetuximab was labeled with a near-infrared (NIR) fluorophore (Cetux-Alexa) and bi…