Researchers from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have developed a promising new antibody therapy known as 77A, which shows potential in enhancing immune responses against various types of cancers. This investigational therapy targets a cancer survival protein, HSP70, and aims to overcome treatment resistance in both blood cancers and solid tumors. The findings were presented on December 6, 2025, at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting.
Mechanism and Effectiveness of 77A
The therapy works by converting HSP70 into a trigger for the immune system, activating T cells and natural killer (NK) cells to alter the tumor environment. In laboratory models, 77A not only demonstrated significant antitumor effects but also enhanced the effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiation, and existing immunotherapies across multiple tumor types.
Led by Jun Wei, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor of Lymphoma & Myeloma, and Robert Z. Orlowski, M.D., Ph.D., a professor in the same department, the study explored how 77A can help combat treatment resistance, particularly in conditions like myeloma and lymphoma. Wei expressed optimism about the findings, stating, “There is tremendous promise in the way 77A is capable of rewiring the immune system, enabling it to respond effectively against multiple cancers.”
Future Directions for Clinical Trials
Importantly, early tests involving human immune cells indicated that 77A could enhance immune responses in healthy donors. This discovery lays the groundwork for clinical trials, suggesting that the antibody could serve as a versatile new therapeutic option. “These results give us confidence that 77A could become a versatile immunotherapy,” said Orlowski.
The next phase involves developing a humanized version of the antibody, which is expected to enter clinical trials soon. Researchers aim to evaluate its efficacy across various cancer types, indicating a significant step forward in cancer immunotherapy.
The study received support from Blood Cancer United, which was formerly known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. A complete list of collaborating authors and their disclosures is available with the abstract presented at the conference.
