KR102128027B1 - Antibodies for treatment of cancer expressing claudin 6 - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to tumors such as ovarian cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, sarcoma, bile duct cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, colon cancer, placental villous epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer and uterine cancer. Provided are antibodies useful as a medicament for treating and/or preventing diseases associated with cells expressing CLDN6, including diseases.

Description

ANTIBODIES FOR TREATMENT OF CANCER EXPRESSING CLAUDIN 6

The present invention relates to claudin 6 specific antibodies.

Antibodies have been successfully introduced into the clinic for use in cancer treatment and have emerged as the most promising treatment in the oncology field over the past decade. Antibody-based therapies for cancer have potentially higher specificity and lower side effects compared to conventional drugs. The reason is that antibodies accurately differentiate between normal and new cells, and their mode of action is dependent on a low toxic immune anti-tumor mechanism, including recruitment and complement activity of cytotoxic immune cells.

Cludins are integral membrane proteins located within tight junctions of epithelium and endothelium. Cloudin is expected to include four transmembrane fragments with two extracellular loops and N and C ends located within the cytoplasm. The claudin (CLDN) family of transmembrane proteins plays an important role in maintaining tight junctions of epithelium and endothelium, and may also play an important role in the maintenance of the cell skeleton and cell signaling. This protein is an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy because it exhibits differences in its membrane position, as well as expression in tumors and normal cells, and uses an antibody-based therapeutic targeting CLDN in cancer therapy. It promises a high level of treatment specificity.

However, the clinical application of CLDN-targeted therapy faces several obstacles. CLDN's important role in the expression of CLDN throughout the body and maintenance of tight junctions requires target specificity in CLDN-targeted therapies to minimize systemic toxicity and maximize treatment specificity.

WO 2009/087978 relates to anti-CLDN6 antibodies and their use as anti-cancer agents. In particular, monoclonal antibodies named AB3-1, AE1-16, AE49-11, and AE3-20 have been described. However, none of these antibodies are specific for CLDN6 as shown by FACS analysis in Example 5. Antibodies AE3-20 reacted with CLDN9, whereas antibodies AE1-16 and AE49-11 showed considerable reactivity with CLDN9 and also reacted with CLDN4. The binding of antibody AB3-1 to CLDN6 was as strong as its binding to CLDN9. It is described in Example 7 that the antibody AE49-11 showed a tendency to inhibit tumor growth and have a life-spanning effect when administered to a mouse tumor model model. However, considering the specificity of the antibody used, it is not clear whether the described effect is due to the binding of the antibody to CLDN6.

Thus, no CLDN6-specific antibodies that selectively bind to the surface of cells expressing CLDN6 have been reported so far. However, such specific antibodies will be required for antibody-based therapeutic approaches that use CLDN6 as a target.

It can be seen from the sequence alignment of CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6, and CLDN9 shown in FIG. 1 that CLDN6 exhibits a high degree of conservation for other claudin proteins. The high homology of these CLDN6 to other claudin proteins, especially CLDN9 and CLDN4, and the fact that WO 2009/087978 failed to provide CLDN6-specific antibodies may not be possible to produce antibodies that specifically bind CLDN6. It suggests that there is.

Summary of the invention

The experimental results described herein show that CLDN6 is expressed in various human cancer cells, while expression in normal tissues is limited to the placenta.

Moreover, the present invention first describes the successful production of CLDN6-specific antibodies capable of binding to the surface of intact cells expressing CLDN6. FACS analysis of intact cells expressing CLDN6 showed specific binding of anti-CLDN6 antibodies, whereas cells expressing other claudin proteins, especially CLDN3, CLDN4 and CLDN9, or cells that do not express any such CLDN protein No binding of was observed. Thus, the present invention unexpectedly produces an antibody that specifically performs an antibody-antigen reaction with CLDN6 on the surface of cells expressing CLDN6, but does not substantially perform an antigen-antibody reaction with other highly homologous claudins. Shows that it can.

The present invention generally provides antibodies useful for therapies that treat and/or prevent cell-related diseases that express CLDN6 and are characterized by the binding of CLDN6 to the cell surface, which diseases are cancer-related diseases, particularly ovarian cancer Lung cancers, especially squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, gastric cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, especially basal cell cancer and squamous cell, including ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian malformation cancer, small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) Cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, especially malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, especially synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary tract cancer, bladder cancer, especially transitional cell carcinoma and thyroid papillary cancer, kidney cancer, especially transparent cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary Renal cell cancer including renal cell cancer, colon cancer, small intestine cancer including ileal cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic carcinoma, placental villous epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, particularly testicular normal hematomas, testicular teratoma and Embryonic cell cancers such as embryonic testicular cancer, uterine cancer, teratoma or embryonic carcinoma, in particular embryonic cell cancer of the testis, and cancers such as their metastatic form.

In one aspect, the invention relates to an antibody capable of binding CLDN6 bound to the surface of a cell expressing CLDN6. Preferably, the antibody is substantially incapable of binding to CLDN9 bound to the surface of cells expressing CLDN9. Preferably, the antibody is substantially incapable of binding to CLDN4 bound to the surface of cells expressing CLDN4 and/or substantially unable to bind to CLDN3 bound to the surface of cells expressing CLDN3. Most preferably, the antibody is substantially incapable of binding to CLDN protein except CLDN6 bound to the surface of cells expressing CLDN protein, and is specific for CLDN6. Preferably, the cell expressing the CLDN protein is an intact cell, particularly a non-permeabilized cell, and the CLDN protein bound to the cell surface is natural, i.e., not denatured. It has a form. Preferably, the antibody is capable of binding one or more epitopes of CLDN6 in its natural form.

In one embodiment, the antibody is capable of binding an epitope located within the extracellular portion of CLDN6, wherein the extracellular portion of CLDN6 is preferably SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 14 And an amino acid sequence consisting of any one of SEQ ID NO: 15, preferably an amino acid sequence consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 or SEQ ID NO: 7, more preferably an amino acid sequence consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 Is to do. Preferably the antibody is an amino acid sequence consisting of any of SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 14 and SEQ ID NO: 15, preferably SEQ ID NO: 6 or SEQ ID NO: 7 It is capable of binding an epitope located within the amino acid sequence.

In one embodiment, the antibody is at least one selected from the group consisting of Thr33, Phe35, Gly37, Ser39, Ile40 and Leu151, preferably at least one such as 2, 3, 4 or 5, preferably binding to all amino acids By, preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of Thr33, Phe35, Gly37, Ser39 and Ile40, preferably at least one, preferably by binding with all the ammanoic acids, more preferably Phe35, Gly37, Ser39 And Ile40 or at least one selected from the group consisting of Thr33, Phe35, Gly37 and Ser39, preferably one or more, preferably by binding to all amino acids, and in particular from the group consisting of Phe35, Gly37 and Ser39. At least one, preferably 1 or more, more preferably, is capable of binding to CLDN6 by binding with all amino acids. Preferably the antibody is at least one selected from the group consisting of Glu154, Ala155, Arg158 and Gly161, preferably does not bind all amino acids, preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of Arg158 and Gly161, preferably It does not bind to all amino acids.

The binding between the antibody and CLDN6, especially in its natural form, can be analyzed by alanine scanning mutagenesis of amino acids. The ability to bind specific monoclonal antibodies to CLDN6 variants can be assessed. The inability to bind specific monoclonal antibodies to CLDN6 variants suggests that the mutated amino acid is an important contact residue. Binding can be analyzed, for example, by flow cytometry.

In one embodiment, the antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 14 and SEQ ID NO: 15, preferably SEQ ID NO: 6 or SEQ ID NO: It can be obtained by a method comprising immunizing an animal using a peptide having an amino acid sequence of 7 or an immunologically equivalent peptide, or a nucleic acid or host cell expressing the peptide.

In other embodiments, the CLDN6 to which the antibody can bind has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 or the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8. It is particularly preferred that the antibody is capable of binding to CLDN6 having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, and capable of binding to CLDN6 having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention is at least one of the CDR sequences of an antibody heavy chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 34, 36, 38 and 40 or a variant thereof, preferably 2, more preferably 3 Includes all-inclusive antibody heavy chain. CDR sequences are indicated by boxes in the aforementioned antibody heavy chain sequences as shown in FIG. 25.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3, wherein Xaa1 is any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Is Tyr, Xaa2 is any amino acid, preferably aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr, and Xaa3 is any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu . In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 or Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp, wherein Xaa1, Xaa2 and Xaa3 are as defined above. In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp, wherein Xaa1, Xaa2 and Xaa3 are as defined above. In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Ala Arg Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp Tyr, wherein Xaa1, Xaa2 and Xaa3 are as defined above. In one embodiment, the antibody according to the preceding embodiments comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising a CDR1 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 47 or a variant thereof and/or a CDR2 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 48 or a variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising an antibody heavy chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 34, 36, 38 and 40 or a variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention is at least one, preferably two, more preferably three of the CDR sequences of an antibody light chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 35, 37, 39 and 41 or a variant thereof. Includes all-inclusive antibody light chain. The CDR sequences are boxed within the aforementioned antibody light chain sequence as shown in Figure 26.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody light chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro, wherein Xaa1 is any amino acid, preferably Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser, Xaa2 is any Of amino acids, preferably Tyr, Ser, Ile, Asn or Thr, more preferably Tyr, Ser, or Asn, most preferably Asn, Xaa3 is any amino acid, preferably Ser or Tyr, more preferably Is Tyr. In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody light chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Gln Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro Pro, wherein Xaa1, Xaa2 and Xaa3 are as defined above. In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody light chain comprising the CDR3 sequence Gln Gln Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro Pro Trp Thr, wherein Xaa1, Xaa2 and Xaa3 are as defined above. In one embodiment, the antibody according to the above embodiments comprises a CDR1 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 52 or a variant thereof and/or a CDR2 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 53 or a variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises an antibody light chain comprising an antibody light chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 35, 37, 39 and 41 or a variant thereof.

In various embodiments, the antibody according to the invention comprises an antibody heavy chain as previously discussed and an antibody light chain as previously discussed.

In one embodiment, antibodies of the invention include:

(i) an antibody heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: x or a CDR sequence of a variant thereof, preferably two, more preferably all three, and

(ii) an antibody light chain of SEQ ID NO: x+1 or at least one of the CDR sequences of a variant thereof, preferably two, more preferably all three;

Where x is selected from 34, 36, 38 and 40.

CDR sequences are boxed within the antibody heavy chain sequence and antibody light chain sequence mentioned above, respectively, as shown in Figures 25 and 26, respectively.

In one embodiment, antibodies of the invention include:

(i) CDR3 sequence selected from the group consisting of Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3, Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3, Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp, Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp, and Ala Arg Asp Xaa1 Gly Xaa2 Val Xaa3 Asp Tyr Antibody heavy chain comprising, wherein Xaa1 is any amino acid, preferably aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr, and Xaa2 is any amino acid, preferably aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr, Xaa3 is any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising a CDR3 sequence selected from the group consisting of Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro, Gln Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro Pro, Gln Gln Arg Xaa1 Xaa2 Xaa3 Pro Pro Trp Thr, wherein Xaa1 is any amino acid, preferably Is Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser, Xaa2 is any amino acid, preferably Tyr, Ser, Ile, Asn or Thr, more preferably Tyr, Ser, or Asn, most preferably Asn, Xaa3 Is any amino acid, preferably Ser or Tyr, most preferably Tyr.

In one embodiment, the antibody according to the above embodiments comprises an antibody heavy chain comprising (i) a CDR1 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 47 or a variant thereof and/or a CDR2 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 48 or a variant thereof And/or (ii) an antibody light chain comprising a CDR1 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 52 or a variant thereof and/or a CDR2 sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 53 or a variant thereof.

In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention are:

(i) an antibody heavy chain comprising an antibody heavy chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 34, 36, 38 and 40 or a variant thereof, preferably SEQ ID NO: 36 or a variant thereof, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising an antibody light chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 35, 37, 39, 41, 54 and 55 or a variant thereof, preferably SEQ ID NO: 35 or a variant thereof

It includes.

In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention are:

(i) an antibody heavy chain sequence comprising the antibody heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36 or a variant thereof, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising an antibody light chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 35, 54 and 55 or variants thereof

It includes.

In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention are:

(i) an antibody heavy chain sequence comprising the antibody heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36 or a variant thereof, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising an antibody light chain sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 54 and 55 or variants thereof

It includes.

In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention are:

(i) an antibody heavy chain sequence comprising the antibody heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36 or a variant thereof, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising the antibody light chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 35 or a variant thereof

It includes.

In one embodiment, antibodies of the invention include:

(i) an antibody heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: x or an antibody heavy chain comprising a variant thereof, and

(ii) an antibody light chain comprising the antibody light chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: x+1 or a variant thereof,

Where x is selected from 34, 36, 38 and 40.

In a preferred embodiment, the antibody of the invention comprises a gamma-1 heavy chain constant region, preferably a human gamma-1 heavy chain constant region such as the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 25 and/or a kappa light chain constant region, preferably Human kappa light chain constant regions, such as the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 27.

In a preferred embodiment, the antibody (i) CLDN6 expressing cell killing activity, (ii) CLDN6 expressing cell proliferation inhibitory activity, (iii) CLDN6 expressing cell colony formation inhibiting activity, (iv) settled Select from tumor decay, ie, reduction in size, preferably complete decay, ie complete mediating activity, (v) tumor formation or remodeling inhibitory activity, and (vi) CLDN6 expressing cell metastasis inhibitory activity. It has one or more activities. Thus, the antibody can be used for one or more of the above, especially when administered to a patient. Such cell killing and/or activity that inhibits the activity of one or more of the cells can be used pharmaceutically as described herein. In particular, cell killing, inhibition of cell proliferation and/or inhibition of cell colony formation can be used to treat or prevent cancer, including metastasis of cancer. Inhibition of cell proliferation, colony formation and/or metastasis can be used, in particular, to treat or prevent cancer metastasis and metastatic transmission of cancer cells. Preferably the antibodies of the invention are complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) mediated lysis, antibody dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) mediated lysis, apoptosis, isoform adhesion and/or phagocytosis, preferably CDC mediated lysis and/or ADCC mediated. Cells are mediated by the induction of lysis. However, the present invention provides that the antibody does not induce complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) mediated lysis, antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) mediated lysis, apoptosis, isoform adhesion, and/or phagocytosis, and cell killing and/or one or more. Also included are embodiments that exercise the activity described herein, such as inhibition of cell activity, such as cell proliferation and/or colony formation. For example, the antibodies of the invention can also exert a simple effect by binding to CLDN6 on the cell surface, and thus blocking cell proliferation. In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention do not induce CDC mediated lysis of cells.

Preferably, ADCC mediated lysis of cells occurs in the presence of effector cells, in particular it is selected from the group consisting of monosite, mononuclear cells, NK cells and PMNs, and phagocytosis is by macrophages.

The activity of inhibiting or reducing the proliferation of cells expressing CLDN6, preferably cancer cells, is measured by proliferation of CLDN6-expressing cancer cells in an assay using 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU). Therefore, it can be measured in vitro. BrdU is a synthetic nucleotide that is an analog of thymidine, and can be incorporated into newly synthesized DNA of cells in replication (in the S phase of the cell cycle), replacing thymine during DNA replication. For example, the detection of a compound incorporated using an antibody specific for BrdU indicates cells that are actively replicating DNA.

The activity of inhibiting or reducing colony formation in cells expressing CLDN6, preferably cancer cells, can be measured in vitro in a clonogenic assay. Cell colony assay is a microbiological technique for testing the efficacy of a specific agent for cell survival and proliferation. It is frequently used in cancer research laboratories to test the efficacy of drugs or radioactivity on tumor cell proliferation. The experiment involves three main steps: (i) applying the therapy to a sample of cells, especially cancer cells, (ii) placing the cells in a tissue culture vessel and (iii) allowing the cells to grow. . The resulting colonies are fixed, stained and counted. Colony formation is important with regard to the formation of metastases when individual tumor cells invade the organ. The inhibitory activity of antibodies shows their potential to inhibit the formation of metastases. Antibodies having the activity of inhibiting or reducing colony formation in cell colony assays are particularly useful for treating or preventing the metastasis and metastatic transmission of cancer cells, particularly those of the type described herein.

In a preferred embodiment, the antibody exhibits at least one immune effector function against cells that deliver CLDN6 in its natural form, wherein said at least one immune effector function is preferably complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody dependent cell mediated toxicity (ADCC), selected from the group consisting of induction of apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation, preferably the effector function is ADCC and/or CDC.

Preferably, the at least one activity or the at least one immune effector function is exhibited by the antibody, and is induced by binding to the CLDN6 of the antibody, preferably by an epitope located within the extracellular portion of CLDN6, wherein the The extracellular portion of CLDN6 is preferably the amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 14 and SEQ ID NO: 15, preferably SEQ ID NO: 6 or SEQ ID The amino acid sequence of NO:7, more preferably the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:6.

According to the present invention, cells expressing CLDN6 are preferably characterized by the binding of CLDN6 to the cell surface. Cells expressing CLDN6 in their natural form or cells that deliver CLDN6 are preferably tumor cells such as cancer cells, preferably ovarian cancer, in particular ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian malformation, small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) lung cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, gastric cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, particularly malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, Small intestine, including renal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, ileal cancer, including synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary tract cancer, bladder cancer, especially transitional cell carcinoma and thyroid papillary cancer, kidney cancer, especially clear cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma. Cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic carcinoma, placental chorionic carcinoma, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, in particular testicular normal, testicular teratoma and embryonic testicular cancer, uterine cancer, teratoma or embryonic carcinoma, in particular Testicular embryonic cell cancer, and cancer cells derived from cancer selected from the group consisting of these metastatic forms.

Antibodies of the invention can be linked to one or more pharmaceutical effector moieties, such as radioactive labels, cytotoxins, pharmaceutical enzymes, agents that induce apoptosis, etc., to provide targeted cytotoxicity, i.e., killing of tumor cells.

In one embodiment, the antibody of the invention (i) expresses CLDN6, binds to a cell characterized in that CLDN6 is associated with the cell surface, (ii) does not express CLDN6, and CLDN6 is a cell surface It does not bind to cells that are not characterized by being attached to. The antibody of the present invention preferably expresses CLDN6, mediates cell killing and/or inhibits proliferation, characterized in that CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface, (ii) does not express CLDN6, and CLDN6 is a cell It does not kill cells that are not characterized by being attached to a surface and/or does not inhibit their proliferation.

In a preferred embodiment, the antibody of the invention binds to a natural epitope of CLDN6, which appears on the surface of living cells as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 6 or 7. In another preferred embodiment, the antibodies of the invention are specific for CLDN6-expressing cancer cells and do not bind to cancer cells that do not express CLDN6.

Antibodies of the invention are not limited to this, but can be derived from different species containing mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and humans. Antibodies of the invention contain a chimeric molecule combined with an antigen binding site derived from one species, preferably an antibody constant region derived from a human species. In addition, the antibody of the present invention contains a humanized molecule in which the antigen binding site of the antibody derived from non-human species is combined with the constant and framework regions of human origin.

Antibodies of the invention contain polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, IgG2a (eg, IgG2a, κ, λ), IgG2b (eg, IgG2b, κ, λ), IgG3 (eg, IgG3, κ, λ) and IgM antibody. However, other antibody isotypes are included in the present invention and contain IgG1, IgAl, IgA2, secreted IgA, IgD, and IgE antibodies. Antibodies can be whole antibodies or their antigen binding fragments containing, for example, Fab, F(ab') ₂ , Fv, single chain Fv fragments or bispecific antibodies. In addition, the antigen-binding fragment is (i) a binding domain polypeptide (including a heavy chain variable region or a light chain variable region) fused with an immunoglobulin hinge region polypeptide, (ii) an immunoglobulin heavy chain CH2 constant region fused to the hinge region , And (iii) a binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion protein comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain CH3 constant region fused to a CH2 constant region. Such binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion proteins are further disclosed in US2003/0118592 and US 2003/0133939.

Antibodies of the invention are preferably monoclonal, chimeric, human or humanized antibodies or fragments of antibodies. Antibodies of the invention include fully human antibodies. Such antibodies can be produced in non-human transgenic animals, such as transgenic mice, that can undergo V-D-J recombination and isotype switching to produce multiple isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6. Such transgenic animals can be transgenic rabbits to produce polyclonal antibodies such as those disclosed in US 2003/0017534.

The antibody of the invention preferably has a dissociation constant (KD) of approximately 1-100 nM or less and dissociates from CLDN6. Preferably, the antibodies of the invention do not cross react with related cell-surface antigens and therefore do not inhibit their function.

In a preferred embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be characterized by one or more of the properties described below:

a) specificity for CLDN6;

b) the binding affinity for CLDN6 is about 100 nM or less, preferably about 5-10 nM or less, more preferably about 1-3 nM or less;

c) the ability to express CLDN6 and induce CDC of cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

d) the ability to express CLDN6 and inhibit the growth of cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

e) the ability to express CLDN6 and induce apoptosis in cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

f) The ability to express CLDN6 and induce homotypic adhesion of cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface:

g) in the presence of effector cells, the ability to express ADCN6 and induce ADCC of cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

h) the ability to express CLDN6 and prolong survival of subjects with tumor cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

i) the ability to reduce tumor cells, which is characterized by expressing CLDN6 and having CLDN6 attached to the cell surface;

j) Ability to aggregate CLDN6 on the surface of living cells.

Preferred antibodies described herein are those that can be produced or obtained by hybridoma cells deposited with DSMZ (Inhoffenstr. 7B, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany), and have one of the following names and accession numbers:

1. GT512muMAB 59A, deposit number DSM ACC3067, deposited on June 21, 2010;

2. GT512muMAB 60A, deposit number DSM ACC3068, deposited on June 21, 2010;

3. GT512muMAB 61D, deposit number DSM ACC3069, deposited on June 21, 2010;

4. GT512muMAB 64A, deposited on June 21, 2010, accession number DSM ACC3070;

5. GT512muMAB 65A, deposit number DSM ACC3071, deposited on June 21, 2010;

6. GT512muMAB 66B, accession number DSM ACC3072, deposited on June 21, 2010;

7. GT512muMAB 67A, deposit number DSM ACC3073, deposited on June 21, 2010;

8. GT512muMAB 55A, deposit number DSM ACC3089, deposited on August 31, 2010; or

9. GT512muMAB 89A, deposited on August 31, 2010, accession number DSM ACC3090.

Antibodies of the invention are named herein by referring to the name of the antibody and/or the clone that produces the antibody (eg, muMAB 59A).

Other preferred antibodies are the same or highly identical to those of antibodies produced and obtainable from the hybridomas described above, in particular antigen binding sites or antigen binding sites, particularly those produced and obtainable from the hybridomas described above. These are those having the specificity of an antibody including a variable region having homology.

Preferred antibodies are interpreted as those having CDR regions that are identical or highly homologous to those of the antibodies produced and obtainable from the hybridomas described above. By "high homology" it is interpreted that 1 to 4 substitutions, such as 1 to 5, preferably 1 to 3 or 1 or 2, may be in each CDR region. Particularly preferred antibodies are chimeric and humanized forms of antibodies produced and obtainable from the hybridomas described above.

Therefore, the antibody of the present invention may be selected from the group consisting of: (i) Accession number DSM ACC3067 (GT512muMAB 59A), DSM ACC3068 (GT512muMAB 60A), DSM ACC3069 (GT512muMAB 61D), DSM ACC3070 (GT512muMAB 64A). , Antibodies produced or obtained from clones deposited under DSM ACC3071 (GT512muMAB 65A), DSM ACC3072 (GT512muMAB 66B), DSM ACC3073 (GT512muMAB 67A), DSM ACC3089 (GT512muMAB 55A), or DSM ACC3090 (GT512muMAB 89A), ii ) an antibody in the chimeric or humanized form of the antibody of (i), (iii) an antibody having the specificity of the antibody of (i), and (iv) an antigen-binding portion or antigen-binding site of the antibody of (i) Antibody comprising. The antigen-binding portion or antigen-binding portion of the antibody of (i) may include the variable portion of the antibody of (i).

The invention also relates to cells, such as hybridoma cells, that produce the antibodies described above.

Preferred hybridoma cells are those deposited with DSMZ (Inhoffenstr. 7B, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany) and have the following name and accession number:

1. GT512muMAB 59A, accession number DSM ACC3067, deposited on June 21, 2010;

2. GT512muMAB 60A, accession number DSM ACC3068, deposited on June 21, 2010;

3. GT512muMAB 61D, accession number DSM ACC3069, deposited on June 21, 2010;

4. GT512muMAB 64A, accession number DSM ACC3070, deposited on June 21, 2010;

5. GT512muMAB 65A, accession number DSM ACC3071, deposited on June 21, 2010;

6. GT512muMAB 66B, Accession No. DSM ACC3072, deposited on June 21, 2010;

7. GT512muMAB 67A, deposit number DSM ACC3073, deposited on June 21, 2010;

8. GT512muMAB 55A, deposit number DSM ACC3089, deposited on August 31, 2010; or

9. GT512muMAB 89A, deposited on August 31, 2010, accession number DSM ACC3090.

The anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention can be derivatized, co-expressed with other binding specificities, or combined. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a first binding specificity for at least one CLDN6 (eg, an anti-CLDN6 antibody or mimetic thereof) and an Fc receptor (eg, an Fc-gamma receptor, including Fc-gamma RI, Or other Fc receptors) or T cell receptors, such as bispecific, multispecific molecules comprising a second binding specificity for effector cells, including binding specificity for CD3.

Accordingly, the present invention contains bispecific and multispecific molecules that bind to both CLDN6 and Fc receptors or T cell receptors, such as CD3. Examples of Fc receptors are Fc-gamma receptors (FcγR), including IgG receptors, FcγRI (CD64), FcγRII (CD32), and FcγRIII (CD16). Other Fc receptors can also be targeted, including the IgA receptor (eg, FcαRI). The Fc receptor is preferably located on the surface of effector cells, such as monosites, macrophages or activated mononuclear cells. In a preferred embodiment, the bispecific and multispecific molecules bind the Fc receptor at a site that is distinct from the receptor's immunoglobulin Fc (eg, IgG or IgA) binding site. Therefore, bispecific and multispecific molecules are not blocked by the physiological level of immunoglobulins.

In another aspect, the anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention are derivatized and bound or co-expressed to other functional molecules, such as other peptides or proteins (eg Fab' fragments). For example, the antibodies of the invention can be used to produce other antibodies (e.g., to produce bispecific or multispecific antibodies), cytotoxins, cell ligands or antigens (to produce immunoconjugates, including immunotoxins). Functionally coupled to one or more other molecular entities (eg, chemical coupling, genetic fusion, non-covalent combinations, or the like). Antibodies of the invention can bind other therapeutic moieties such as radioisotopes, small molecule anti-cancer drugs, recombinant cytokines or chemokines. Accordingly, the present invention encompasses various antibody conjugates, bispecific and multispecific molecules and fusion proteins, all of which bind to cells characterized by CLDN6 expressing cells and/or CLDN6 attached to the cell surface, and such cells It can be used to target other molecules to the field.

In general, all derivatives of antibodies such as antibody conjugates, bispecific and multispecific molecules, fusion proteins described herein for the purposes of the present invention are included in the term “antibody”.

In another aspect, the present invention also visualizes CLDN6-binding proteins derived from non-immunoglobulin domains, particularly single chain proteins. Such binding proteins and methods for their production are described, for example, in Binz et al. (2005) Nature Biotechnology 23 (10): 1257-1268, which is incorporated herein by reference. do. It will be understood that the teachings described herein with respect to immunoglobulins or immunoglobulins derived from binding molecules also apply to binding molecules derived from corresponding non-immunoglobulin domains. Particularly, by using a binding molecule derived from such a non-immunoglobulin domain, CLDN6 of a cell characterized by expressing the target and attaching the target to the cell surface is blocked, and as a result, the antibody of the present invention It makes it possible to inhibit the pharmaceutical effect as described herein, in particular one or more of the activity of the tumor cells described herein, such as proliferation. Although not compulsory, it is possible to confer such effector functions of the antibody to such non-immunoglobulin binding molecules, for example, by fusion of the antibody to the Fc region.

The present invention generally encompasses treating and/or diagnosing diseases, particularly tumor diseases, by targeting CLDN6 expressed by cells and attached to the cell surface. This method provides for selective detection and/or eradication of such cells, thereby minimizing side effects on normal cells that do not express CLDN6 and are not characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. Preferred diseases for treatment or diagnosis are tumor diseases, particularly those associated with cells characterized by CLDN6 expression and attachment of CLDN6 to the cell surface, such as cancer diseases such as those described herein.

In one aspect, the invention provides a composition comprising an antibody or combination of antibodies of the invention, such as a pharmaceutical and diagnostic composition/kit. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may include a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and may optionally include one or more auxiliary agents, stabilizers, and the like. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a combination of antibodies that attach to a unique epitope or possess unique functional properties such as inducing CDC and/or ADCC and inducing apoptosis. In this embodiment of the invention, the antibodies can be used in combination as a pharmaceutical composition comprising, for example, two or more anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies. For example, to achieve the desired pharmaceutical effect, anti-CLDN6 antibodies with different but complementary activity can be combined in a single therapy. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises an anti-CLDN6 antibody that mediates CDC, in combination with other anti-CLDN6 antibodies that induce apoptosis. In another embodiment, the composition expresses CLDN6 and is highly effective killing of target cells in the presence of effector cells in combination with other anti-CLDN6 antibodies capable of inhibiting cell growth characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. Anti-CLDN6 antibody.

The invention also encompasses simultaneous or continuous administration of two or more anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention, wherein at least one of said antibodies is preferably a chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody, and at least one other antibody is a human anti-CLDN6 antibody. , The antibodies bind to the same or different epitopes of CLDN6. Preferably the chimeric CLDN6 antibody of the invention is administered first, followed by the human anti-CLDN6 antibody of the invention, wherein the human anti-CLDN6 antibody is preferably administered for an extended period of time, i.e. as maintenance therapy. .

Antibodies, conjugates, bispecific/multispecific molecules and compositions of the invention contact cells with an effective amount of the antibody, conjugate, bispecific/multispecific molecules and composition to inhibit cell growth and/or cells By killing, the cell expressing CLDN6 and inhibiting the growth of cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface, and/or selectively expressing cells characterized by CLDN6 expressing CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. It can be used in a variety of ways to kill. In one embodiment, the method optionally expresses CLDN6 in the presence of effector cells, such as by CDC, apoptosis, ADCC, phagocytosis, or a combination of two or more of these mechanisms, and characterized in that CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface. It involves killing. Cells expressing CLDN6 that can be inhibited or killed using the antibodies of the invention and characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface include cancer cells.

Antibodies, conjugates and bispecific/multispecific molecules and compositions of the present invention express CLDN6 by administering an antibody to a patient suffering from a disease, and a variety of cell-related cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. It can be used to treat and/or prevent disease. Exemplary diseases that can be treated (eg, alleviated) or prevented include, but are not limited to, tumorigenic diseases. Examples of tumorigenic diseases that can be treated and/or prevented include ovarian cancer, in particular ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian malformation, lung cancer including small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, Gastric cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, particularly malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, especially synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary cancer, bladder cancer, especially transitional cell carcinoma And renal cell carcinoma including thyroid papillary cancer, kidney cancer, in particular transparent cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, intestinal cancer including colon cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic carcinoma, placental villi Cancer diseases such as epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, especially testicular normal hematomas, testicular teratomas and embryonic testicular cancer, uterine cancer, teratocarcinoma or embryonic carcinoma, particularly testicular embryonic cell cancer, and metastatic forms thereof. Includes.

Another aspect of the present invention, comprising administering to the subject the antibody, conjugate, bispecific/multispecific molecule and composition of the present invention, CLDN6 expressing cells and characterized in that CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface and It relates to a method of treating or preventing a related disease or condition. The disease or condition is preferably a tumor-related disease, in certain embodiments ovarian cancer, in particular ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian malformation cancer, lung cancer including small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), in particular squamous epithelial cell Carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, stomach cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, especially malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, especially synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary cancer, bladder cancer, In particular, transitional cell carcinoma and thyroid papillary cancer, kidney cancer, in particular renal cell cancer including transparent cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell cancer, small intestine cancer including colon cancer, ileal cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic Carcinoma, placental villous epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, especially testicular normal hematomas, testicular teratoma and embryonic testicular cancer, embryonic cell cancer such as uterine cancer, teratoma or embryonic carcinoma, particularly testicular embryonic cell cancer, and metastases thereof. It is selected from the group consisting. CLDN6 is preferably expressed on the surface of the cell.

The present invention may relate to the use of the medicaments and compositions described herein for the prevention and/or pharmaceutical treatment of tumor diseases, ie for treating patients with or at risk of developing tumor diseases. have. In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of inhibiting tumor growth, comprising administering one or more of the medicaments and compositions described herein.

Preferably, the medicaments and compositions described herein are pharmaceutically active when the tissue or organ, such as placental tissue or placenta, expresses CLDN6 and is free from tumors characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. The substance is administered in a manner that is not delivered to or substantially delivered to the tissue or organ. To this end, the medicaments or compositions described herein can be administered topically.

In one aspect, the invention provides an antibody as described herein, which can be used in the treatments described herein. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition as described herein, which can be used in the therapy described herein.

In particular embodiments of the invention, the subject to which the antibody will be administered will be further treated with agents that modulate, such as increase or inhibit, the activity or expression of an Fc receptor, such as a chemotherapeutic agent, radiation, or cytokine, such as an Fc-gamma receptor. Can. Typical cytokines for administration during treatment include G-CSF (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor), GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor), IFN-γ (interferon-γ), and TNF (tumor necrosis factor). Contains. Typical therapeutic agents contain anti-tumor agents, including others, doxorubicin, cisplatin, taxotere, 5-fluorouracil, methotrexat, gemzitabin, and cyclophosphamide.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to an immunization strategy for immunizing a non-human animal such as a mouse with human CLDN6 or a peptide fragment thereof to obtain an antibody. Preferred peptides for immunization are those selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 14 and SEQ ID NO: 15 and immunologically equivalent peptides.

Wild-type as well as transgenic non-human animals can be immunized with purified or enriched preparations of cells expressing the CLDN6 antigen or peptide fragments and/or nucleic acids and/or CLDN6 or peptide fragments thereof. Preferably, the recombinant non-human animal can produce multiple isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6 (eg, IgG, IgA and/or IgM) by V-D-J recombination and isotype switching. Isotype switching can occur, for example, by traditional or non-traditional isotype switching.

Thus, in another aspect, the present invention provides isolated B cells from the non-human animal described above. The isolated B cells can then be immortalized by fusion to immortalized cells to provide a source (eg, hybridoma) of the antibody of the invention. Such hybridomas (ie, which produce the antibodies of the invention) are also included within the scope of the invention.

In another aspect, the present invention uses an antibody of the present invention to detect and/or measure the amount of cells characterized by CLDN6 or CLDN6 expression in a biological sample isolated from a patient and CLDN6 attached to the surface of the cell. It relates to a method of diagnosing, detecting or monitoring a tumor disease, including. The biological sample can be isolated from a patient with, or suspected of having, or having, a tumor disease.

In one embodiment of the method of diagnosing, detecting or monitoring a tumor disease according to the invention, the biological sample and/or control/reference sample is a tissue corresponding to the tissue or organ to be diagnosed, detected or monitored for the effects of the tumor disease Or from an organ, for example, the tumor disease to be diagnosed, detected or monitored is ovarian cancer, and the biological sample and/or control/reference sample is ovarian tissue. Such tissues and organs are described herein in connection with, for example, different tumor diseases and cancers.

In one embodiment of a method of diagnosing, detecting or monitoring a tumor disease, a biological sample is a tissue or organ without tumor that does not substantially express CLDN6 or is characterized by substantially no attachment of CLDN6 to the cell surface. Or from an institution. Preferably, the tissue is not a placental tissue.

Typically, the level of a target molecule in a biological sample is compared to a reference level, where deviation from the reference level indicates the presence and/or phase of tumor disease in the subject. The reference level can be a level determined in a control sample (eg, from a healthy tissue or subject) or a median from a healthy subject. “Off” from the reference level refers to a significant change such as increasing or decreasing by at least 10%, 20%, or 30%, preferably at least 40% or 50%, or more. Preferably, the presence of cells expressing CLDN6 or CLDN6 in the biological sample and characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface, and reference to cells expressing CLDN6 or CLDN6 and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. The increased amount compared to the level indicates the presence of tumor disease.

Typically, detection and/or amount determination in the methods of the present invention involves the use of labeled antibodies that specifically bind to target molecules.

In certain aspects, the invention relates to a method of detecting, ie determining the location or site of a tumor disease, such as a particular tissue or organ, comprising administering to the patient an antibody of the invention in association with a detectable label. Labeling of tissues or organs in the patient may indicate the presence or risk of tumor disease in the tissues or organs.

As exemplified herein, the antibodies of the invention can be obtained directly from hybridomas expressing the antibody, or can be cloned into host cells (such as CHO cells or lymphocyte cells) and expressed recombinantly. Additional examples of host cells include microorganisms such as E. coli, fungi such as yeast. Alternatively, they can be produced recombinantly in recombinant non-human animals or plants. However, the present invention also uses the immunization strategies described herein to visualize embodiments in which antibodies are produced in situ in a patient by immunization or vaccination.

The present invention relates to an antibody disclosed herein or a portion thereof, such as a nucleic acid sequence comprising a nucleic acid sequence or gene encoding an antibody chain. Nucleic acids can be included in vectors, such as plasmids, cosmids, viruses, bacteriophage, or other vectors commonly used in genetic engineering, for example. Vectors can include additional genes as marker genes that allow selection of the vector under appropriate host cells and appropriate conditions. In addition, the vector can include expression control elements that allow for proper expression of the coding region in a suitable host. Such regulatory elements are known to those skilled in the art and may contain promoters, splice cassettes and translation initiation codons.

Preferably, the nucleic acids of the present invention are operatively linked to the expression control sequences that allow expression in eukaryotic or prokaryotic cells. Regulatory elements that ensure expression in eukaryotic or prokaryotic cells are well known in the art.

Methods for constructing nucleic acid molecules according to the present invention for constructing vectors comprising such nucleic acid molecules for appropriate introduction into a selected host cell to generate or achieve expression are well known in the art.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a host cell comprising a nucleic acid or vector disclosed herein.

Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description and claims that follow.

Definition of Terms

In order to facilitate the understanding of the present invention, terms are first defined. Additional definitions are set forth throughout the detailed description of the invention.

Throughout this specification and the claims that follow, variations such as the words “comprising” and “comprising” and “comprising”, unless the context requires otherwise, refer to the member, integer or step or group, step or group of members, or It should be understood to imply including a group, and should not be understood as excluding other members, other integers or steps of members or groups, integers or steps. The terms "one" and "one" and "its" and similar references used in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the claims), unless otherwise indicated herein or expressly contradicted by context, singular and plural. It will be interpreted as encompassing all. Citation of a range of values herein is intended to provide only a shorthand method of referring to each separate value falling within that range individually. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated herein as if they were individually mentioned herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary languages (eg, “such as”) provided herein is only intended to better describe the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention as otherwise claimed. . No language used in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

Cloudin is a family of proteins, the most important component of a tight junction, where they form a paracellular barrier that regulates the flow of molecules in the intracellular space between cells in the epithelium. Cloudin is a transmembrane protein that crosses the membrane 4 times, with both its N-terminal and C-terminal in the cytoplasm. The first extracellular loop consists of 53 amino acids on average, and the second extracellular loop consists of approximately 24 amino acids. CLDN6 and CLDN9 are the most similar members of the CLDN family.

The term "CLDN" as used herein means claudin, and includes CLDN6, CLDN9, CLDN4 and CLDN3. Preferably CLDN is human CLDN.

The term “CLDN6” preferably relates to human CLDN6, and in particular encodes the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 or (i) a nucleic acid comprising the nucleic acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; Nucleic acid comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence, or (ii) a protein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 or comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8. The first extracellular loop of CLDN6 is preferably the 28th to 80th amino acids of the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:2 or the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:8, such as the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:7 , More preferably, from 28 to 76 amino acids. The second extracellular loop of CLDN6 is the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 or the 138-160th amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, preferably the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 6 It preferably contains 141 to 159 amino acids, more preferably 145 to 157 amino acids. It is preferred that the first and second extracellular loops form the extracellular portion of CLDN6.

The term “CLDN9” is preferably related to human CLDN9, in particular (i) a nucleic acid comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9 or (ii) comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9 It's about protein. The first extracellular loop of CLDN9 preferably comprises the 28th to 76th amino acids of the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:9. The second extracellular loop of CLDN9 preferably comprises amino acids 141 to 159 of the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 9. It is preferred that the first and second extracellular loops form the extracellular portion of CLDN9.

The term “CLDN4” is preferably related to human CLDN4, in particular (i) a nucleic acid comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10 or (ii) comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10 It's about protein. The first extracellular loop of CLDN4 preferably comprises the 28th to 76th amino acids of the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 10. The second extracellular loop of CLDN4 preferably comprises the amino acid sequence 141 to 159 of the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 10. It is preferred that the first and second extracellular loops form the extracellular portion of CLDN4.

The term "CLDN3" is preferably related to human CLDN3, in particular (i) a nucleic acid comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoded by the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11 or (ii) comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11 Protein. The first extracellular loop of CLDN3 preferably comprises the 27th to 75th amino acids of the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:11. The second extracellular loop of CLDN3 preferably comprises the 140-158th amino acid of the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:11. It is preferred that the first and second extracellular loops form the extracellular region of CLDN3.

CLDN sequences described above include any variant of the sequence, in particular, mutations, splice variants, stereoisomers, isoforms, allelic variants, species variants and species homologs, particularly those naturally occurring. Includes. Allelic variants are associated with alterations in the normal sequence of genes, the importance of which is often unclear. Complete gene sequencing often identifies numerous allelic variants of a given gene. A species homologue is a nucleic acid or amino acid sequence having a species origin different from that of a given nucleic acid or amino acid sequence. The term “CLDN” refers to (i) CLDN splice variants, (ii) CLDN post-translational modification variants, including (iii) variants having different glycosylation, such as the N-glycosylation state, (iii) CLDN conformational variant, (iv) ) CLDN cancer related and CLDN non-cancer related variants. CLDN is preferably in its natural form.

CLDN6 has been found to be expressed, for example, in ovarian cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, head and neck cancer, sarcoma, bile duct cancer, renal cell cancer and bladder cancer. CLDN6 is particularly ovarian cancer, especially ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian adenocarcinoma, lung cancer including small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, gastric cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, in particular Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, particularly malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, especially synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary cancer, bladder cancer, especially transitional cell carcinoma and papillary cancer, kidney cancer, especially transparent cell renal cell Renal cell carcinoma including cancer and papillary renal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, small intestine cancer including ileal cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic carcinoma, placental villous epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, especially testicular normal epithelium, It is a particularly preferred target for preventing and/or treating testicular teratomas and embryonic testicular cancers, embryonic cell cancers such as uterine cancer, teratoma or embryonic carcinoma, in particular embryonic cell carcinoma of the testis, and their metastatic form. In one embodiment the cancer disease associated with the expression of CLDN6 is selected from the group consisting of ovarian cancer, lung cancer, metastatic ovarian cancer and metastatic lung cancer. Ovarian cancer is preferably a carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. Lung cancer is preferably carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, preferably bronchial cancer such as bronchial carcinoma or bronchial adenocarcinoma. In one embodiment, the tumor cells involved in the expression of CLDN6 are cancer-like cells.

The term "portion" means a fragment. With respect to a specific structure, such as an amino acid sequence or protein, the term “part” of it can mean a contiguous or discontinuous fragment of the structure. Preferably, the portion of the amino acid is at least 1%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably of the amino acid of the amino acid sequence. Includes at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90%. Preferably if the part is a discontinuous fragment, the discontinuous fragment consists of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 parts of the structure, or more parts, each part of which is a continuation of the structure It is preferred that it is an element. For example, a discontinuous fragment of an amino acid sequence may consist of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more, preferably no more than 4 portions of the amino acid sequence, Where each portion preferably comprises at least 5 contiguous amino acids of the amino acid sequence, at least 10 contiguous amino acids, preferably at least 20 contiguous amino acids, preferably at least 30 contiguous amino acids.

The terms "part" and "fragment" can be used interchangeably herein, meaning a continuous element. For example, a portion of a structure, such as an amino acid sequence or protein, refers to a contiguous element of the structure. A portion, part or fragment of a structure preferably comprises one or more functional properties of the structure. For example, a portion, portion, or fragment of an epitope or peptide is preferably immunologically equivalent to the epitope or peptide from which it is derived.

The term "extracellular portion of CLDN" in the context of the present invention is a portion of CLDN facing the extracellular space of the cell, preferably a portion accessible from the outside of the cell, ie, an antibody located outside the cell. To mention. Preferably the term refers to one or more extracellular loops of CLDN that are preferably specific for CLDN or a portion or any other extracellular site thereof. Preferably, the portion comprises at least 5, at least 8, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 30, or at least 50 amino acids or more.

It should be understood that the term "CLDN attached to the surface of a cell" relates to relatively natural CLDN, that is, CLDN in an undenatured state, preferably CLDN in a naturally folded state. Preferably, the term "CLDN attached to the surface of a cell" means that CLDN is associated with the cell and is located on the cell membrane of the cell, where at least a portion of the CLDN, preferably the extracellular portion, of the cell It is possible to access the extracellular space and from the outside of the cell, for example, by antibodies located on the outside of the cell. The attachment can be direct or indirect. For example, attachment is by interaction with one or more transmembrane domains, one or more fat anchors, and/or any other protein, fat, saccharide, or other structure that can be found on the outer leaf of a cell's cell membrane. Can be achieved by For example, CLDN attached to the surface of a cell is a membrane permeable protein having an extracellular portion, that is, an integral membrane protein, or is attached to the surface of a cell by interaction with another protein that is a membrane permeable protein. It can be a protein.

CLDN6 is bound to the surface when it is located on the cell surface and has access to CLDN6-specific antibody binding added to the cell. In a preferred embodiment, the cell characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface is a cell expressing CLDN6. It will be understood that when CLDN6 is expressed by a cell, CLDN6 bound to the surface of the cell may be only a portion of the expressed CLDN6.

The term “cell that delivers CLDN” preferably means that the cell has CLDN on its surface, ie CLDN is bound to the surface of the cell.

“Cell surface” or “cell surface” is used according to the general meaning of the art, and thus includes the exterior of a cell that is accessible for binding of proteins or other molecules.

The expression "CLDN expressed on the surface of a cell" means that the CLDN expressed by the cell is found in association with the surface of the cell.

According to the present invention, if the level of expression and binding is lower compared to the expression and binding of placental cells or placental tissue, CLDN6 is not substantially expressed in cells, and is not substantially bound to the surface of cells. Preferably, the level of expression and binding is less than 10%, preferably less than 5%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1% or 0.05% of expression and binding in placental cells or placental tissue. Or even lower values. Preferably, the level of expression and binding exceeds 2 times or less, and preferably 1.5 times or less, in non-oncogenic and non-cancerous tissues other than placental tissue, preferably the non-neoplastic and non-cancerous If the level of expression and binding in the tissue is not exceeded, CLDN6 is not substantially expressed in the cell and is not substantially bound to the cell surface. Preferably, when the level of expression or binding is below the detection limit and/or the level of expression or binding is too low to allow binding by CLDN6-specific antibody added to the cell, CLDN6 is substantially expressed in the cell. And does not substantially bind to the cell surface.

According to the present invention, when the level of expression and binding of CLDN6 exceeds the level of expression and binding in non-oncogenic, non-cancerous cells other than placental tissue, preferably more than 2 times, preferably 10-fold, When greater than 100-fold, 1000-fold, or more than 10000-fold, CLDN6 is expressed in cells and adheres to the cell surface. Preferably, when the level of expression and binding of CLDN6 is higher than the detection limit and/or the expression and binding is sufficiently high to allow binding of the CLDN6-specific antibody added to the cell, CLDN6 is expressed in the cell. Become attached to the surface of the cell. Preferably, CLDN6 expressed in the cell is expressed and exposed on the cell surface of the cell.

The term “raft” means a membrane microdomain rich in sphingolipid- and cholesterol located in the outer leaf region of the cell membrane of the cell. The ability of certain proteins to bind to these domains and their ability to form "aggregates" or "focal aggregates" can affect the function of the protein. For example, after the antibody of the invention is bound, moving the CLDN6 molecule into such a structure forms a high density CLDN6 antigen-antibody complex in the cell membrane. This high density of CLDN6 antigen-antibody complex may enable effective activation of the complement system during CDC.

In accordance with the present invention, the term "disease" refers to any pathological condition, including cancer, in particular cancer in the form described herein.

According to the present invention, "expression of CLDN6 and a cell-related disease characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface" is preferable in comparison with the state in healthy tissues or organs where expression and binding among cells of diseased tissues or organs are healthy. Furnace means to be increased. Increment means an increase of at least 10%, especially at least 20%, at least 50%, at least 100%, at least 200%, at least 500%, at least 1000%, at least 10000% or even more. In one embodiment expression and binding to the cell surface is only found in diseased tissue, while expression in healthy tissue is inhibited. In accordance with the present invention, diseases associated with cells characterized by CLDN6 expressing and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface include tumor diseases such as cancer diseases. Further, according to the present invention, tumor diseases such as cancer diseases are those characterized by tumor cells or cancer cells expressing CLDN6 and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface.

As used herein, "tumor disease", "tumor-related disease" or "tumor disease" refers to abnormally regulated cell growth, proliferation, which can cause tumors and/or tumor metastases to develop or tend to develop. , Diseases characterized by differentiation, attachment and/or migration. "Tumor cell" means an abnormal cell that grows by rapid and uncontrolled cell proliferation and continues to grow after a signal to initiate a new growth stop.

“Tumor” refers to a group of abnormal cells or tissues that grow by rapid and uncontrolled cell proliferation and continue to grow after a signal to initiate a new growth stop. Tumors show a partial or complete lack of structural organization and functional equilibrium with normal tissue, and generally form distinct masses of tissue, which can be benign, pre-malignant, or malignant.

Preferably the "tumor disease", "tumor related disease" or "tumor disease" according to the invention is a cancer disease, ie a malignant disease, and the tumor cells are cancer cells. Preferably, "tumor disease", "tumor related disease" or "tumor disease" is characterized by cells expressing CLDN6 and having CLDN6 attached to a cell surface, and tumor cells express CLDN6 and CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface.

Cells expressing CLDN6 and characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface are preferably tumor cells or cancer cells, preferably tumors or cancers described herein. Preferably, such cells are cells other than placenta cells.

Preferred cancer diseases or cancers according to the present invention include ovarian cancer, in particular ovarian adenocarcinoma and ovarian malformation, lung cancer including small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), in particular squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, gastric cancer, breast cancer, Liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell cancer, malignant melanoma, head and neck cancer, especially malignant polymorphic adenoma, sarcoma, especially synovial sarcoma and carcinoma, biliary cancer, bladder cancer, especially transitional cell carcinoma and papillary cancer, kidney Cancer, in particular renal cell cancer including transparent cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, small intestine cancer including colon cancer, in particular small intestine adenocarcinoma and ileal adenocarcinoma, testicular embryonic carcinoma, placental villous epithelial cancer, cervical cancer, Testicular cancer, in particular testicular normal hematoma, testicular teratoma and embryonic testicular cancer, embryonic cell cancer such as uterine cancer, teratoma or embryonic carcinoma, especially testicular embryonic cell cancer, and metastases thereof.

The main forms of lung cancer are small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). There are three main subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer: squamous cell lung cancer, adenocarcinoma and large cell lung cancer. Adenocarcinoma accounts for about 10% of lung cancer. This cancer, as opposed to small cell carcinoma and squamous cell lung cancer, which tend to be more centrally located, generally appears peripherally in the lung.

Skin cancer is a malignant growth on the skin. The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer. This is due to the uncontrolled growth of pigment cells called melanocytes.

According to the present invention, a malignant tumor is a cancer that begins in the inner layer of the organ (epithelial cells).

"Bronobronchial cancer" is a malignant tumor of the lung that is believed to originate from the epithelial layer of the terminal bronchioles, with new tissue stretching along the alveolar wall and growing into small chunks within the alveoli. Mucus can appear in some of the cells, and in substances in the alveoli, which also include stripped cells.

"Adenocarcinoma" is cancer that occurs in the glandular tissue. This tissue is also part of a larger tissue category known as epithelial tissue. Epithelial cells include various other tissues that line the skin, glands, and body cavities and organs. The epithelial layer is embryologically derived from ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. To be classified as adenocarcinoma, cells need not be part of the glands as long as they have secretory properties. This type of malignant tumor can occur in several higher animals, including humans. Well-differentiated adenocarcinoma tends to resemble the gland tissue from which they originated, while poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma is not. By staining the cells from a biopsy, pathologists will determine whether the tumor is adenocarcinoma or another form of cancer. Adenocarcinoma can occur in many tissues of the body due to the nature of the glands located throughout the body. While each gland may not secrete the same substance, it is considered a gland as long as the cell has an exocrine function, and hence its malignant form is called adenocarcinoma. Malignant adenocarcinoma invades other tissues and often metastasizes if given enough time to do so. Ovarian adenocarcinoma is the most common form of ovarian malignancy. It encompasses intestinal and mucus adenocarcinomas, transparent cell adenocarcinomas and endometrial-like nanocancers.

“Granular cancer” is a malignant form of epidermal epithelial-stromal tumor, a form of ovarian cancer. Epidermal epithelial-stromal tumors are believed to originate from the ovarian surface epithelial layer (modified peritoneum) or translocation endometrium or palopirio (tubular) tissue. This group of tumors accounts for the majority of all ovarian tumors.

Teratocarcinoma refers to an embryonic cell tumor in which teratoma is mixed with embryonic or chorionic carcinoma or both. Chorionic carcinoma is generally an aggressive, malignant cancer of the placenta, trophic substratum. It is characterized by early hematopoietic transmission to the lungs.

Sarcoma is a cancer of connective tissue (bone, cartilage, fat) derived from mesodermal hyperplasia. Unlike adenocarcinoma of epithelial origin, it usually occurs near the joints of the arms or legs. This is one of the soft tissue sarcomas.

Kidney cell carcinoma, also known as renal cell carcinoma or renal cell carcinoma, is kidney cancer derived from the inner layer of the proximal tubule, a very small tube in the kidney that filters blood and removes waste products. Renal cell carcinoma is by far the most common form of kidney cancer in adults and the most fatal of all urogenital tumors. The distinct subtypes of renal cell carcinoma are transparent cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma. Transparent cell renal cell carcinoma is the most common form of renal cell carcinoma. When observed under a microscope, the cells constituting the transparent cell renal cell carcinoma appear very pale and transparent. Papillary renal cell carcinoma is the second most common subtype. These cancers form small, finger-like protrusions (called nipples) in some, if not most, tumors.

Embryonic cell tumors are neoplasms derived from embryonic cells. Embryonic cell tumors can be cancerous or non-cancerous tumors. Embryonic cells usually develop inside the gonads (ovaries and testes). Embryonic cell tumors originating from the outside of the gonads (e.g., in the head, mouth, neck, and pelvis; in the body centerline, especially in the fetus, baby, and child most frequently found at the tip of the tailbone) are caused by faults during embryonic development. Can be a birth defect.

The two main classes of embryonic cell tumors are normal and abnormal, including abnormal teratoma, embryonic cancer, yolk cyst, choriocarcinoma and differentiated teratoma. Most cell lines derived from aberrant hematomas are equivalent to embryonic carcinomas, that is, although some respond to differentiation inducers such as retinoic acid, they make up almost all of the stem cells that do not differentiate under basal conditions.

“Metastasis” refers to the metastasis of cancer cells from their original location to other parts of the body. The formation of metastases is a very complex process, leading to the separation of malignant cells from the initial tumor, the invasion of the extracellular matrix, the passage of the endothelial basement membrane to enter the body cavity and blood vessels, and then transported by blood and then into the target organ. Depend on Finally, the growth of new tumors at the target site is driven by angiogenesis. Tumor metastases can often occur even after removal of the initial tumor, since tumor cells or components may remain and develop metastatic potential. In one embodiment, the term “metastasis” according to the present invention relates to “distant metastasis”, which relates to metastasis away from the initial tumor and local lymph nodes.

Cells of secondary or metastatic tumors are similar to those of the tumor of origin. This means that, for example, when ovarian cancer has spread to the liver, the secondary tumor is composed of abnormal ovarian cells, not abnormal liver cells. Thus, the tumor in the liver is called metastatic ovarian cancer, not liver cancer.

“Treatment” means administering a compound or composition described herein to a subject to prevent or eliminate the disease, which reduces the size of the tumor in the subject or reduces the number of tumors; Detaining or slowing down disease in a subject; Inhibiting or slowing the development of new diseases in the subject; Reducing the frequency or severity and/or recurrence of symptoms in a subject who currently has the disease or has previously had the disease; And/or prolonging, ie increasing the lifespan of the subject.

The term "treatment of disease" includes treatment of a disease or its symptoms, shortening, alleviating, preventing, slowing or inhibiting progression or worsening, or preventing or delaying the onset.

By "risk" is meant a subject, ie a patient, who has been found to have a higher chance of developing a disease, especially cancer, compared to a general population. In addition, subjects who have or currently have a disease, particularly cancer, are subjects with an increased risk of developing the disease, so that the subject can continue to develop the disease. Subjects who currently have or have had cancer also have an increased risk of cancer metastasis.

The term "immunotherapy" refers to a therapy associated with a specific immune response. In the context of the present invention, terms such as "protection", "prevention", "prevention", "preventive" or "protective" relate to the prevention or treatment of both the occurrence and/or spread of tumors in an individual. The term "immunotherapy" in the context of the present invention preferably refers to effective tumor immunization or tumor vaccination. Prophylactic administration of immunotherapy, such as prophylactic administration of the composition of the present invention, preferably protects the recipient from the development of tumor growth. Therapeutic administration of immunotherapy, such as therapeutic administration of a composition of the invention, can lead to inhibition of tumor progression/growth. This includes slowing down tumor progression/growth, especially stopping tumor progression, which can preferably lead to the removal of the tumor. Therapeutic administration of immunotherapy can protect an individual, for example, from spreading or metastasis of an existing tumor.

The terms "immunization" or "vaccination" describe the process of administering an antigen to a subject for the purpose of inducing an immune response for therapeutic or prophylactic reasons.

The terms "subject", "individual", "organism" or "patient" are used interchangeably and refer to vertebrates, preferably mammals. For example, in the context of the present invention, mammals are not only experimental animals such as humans, non-human primates, dogs, cats, sheep, cows, goats, pigs, horses, livestock, mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, etc. Refers to captured animals, such as animals. The term "animal" as used herein includes a person. The term “subject” also includes patients, ie animals, preferably humans, preferably humans with diseases associated with the expression of CLDN6, preferably cancerous diseases such as cancer.

The term “adjuvant” relates to compounds that prolong or enhance or accelerate the immune response. The composition of the invention preferably exerts its efficacy without the addition of an adjuvant. However, the composition of the present application may include any known adjuvant. Adjuvants include heterogeneous groups of compounds such as oil emulsions (such as Freud's adjuvant), mineral compounds (such as alum), bacterial products (such as Bordetella pertussis toxin), liposomes and immuno-stimulatory complexes. Examples of adjuvants are monophosphyl-lipid-A (MPL SmithKline Beecham). Saponins such as QS21 (SmithKline Beecham), DQS21 (SmithKline Beecham; WO 96/33739), QS7, QS17, QS18, and QS-L1 (So et al., 1997, Mol. Cells 7: 178-186), incomplete Freud Adjuvants, complete Freud adjuvants, vitamin E, montanid, vitiligo, CpG oligonucleotides (Krieg et al., 1995, Nature 374: 546-549) and biodegradable oils such as squalene and/or tocopherol There are water emulsions in various oils prepared from.

According to the invention, the sample may be any sample useful in accordance with the invention, particularly biological samples such as tissue samples and/or cellular samples, including body fluids, tissue biopsies including punch biopsies and blood, bronchial aspiration ( bronchial aspirate), sputum, urine, feces or other body fluids. According to the invention, the term "biological sample" also includes fractions of biological samples.

The term "antibody" means a glycoprotein comprising at least two heavy chains (H) and at least two light chains (L) interconnected by disulfide bonds, and includes any molecule comprising its antigen binding site . The term “antibody” includes, but is not limited to, human monoclonal antibodies, humanized monoclonal antibodies, chimeric monoclonal antibodies, single chain antibodies such as scFv's and antigen-binding antibody fragments such as Fab and Fab' fragments. Clonal antibodies and fragments or derivatives thereof, and also antibodies such as antibodies expressed in prokaryotic cells, nonglycosylated antibodies, and any antigen-binding antibody fragments and derivatives as described herein. All recombinant forms are included. Each heavy chain consists of a heavy chain variable region (abbreviated here, VH) and a heavy chain constant region. Each light chain consists of a light chain variable region (abbreviated here, VL) and a light chain constant region. The VH and VL regions can be further subdivided into regions of hypervariation, called complementarity determining regions (CDR), interspersed into more conserved regions called frame regions (FR). Each VH and VL is composed of three CDRs and four FRs from the amino terminus to the carboxy terminus in the following order: FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3, FR4. The variable portion of the heavy and light chains contains a binding domain that interacts with the antigen. The constant regions of the antibodies can mediate the binding of immune globulin to host tissues or factors, including the first component of the traditional complement system (Clq) and various cells of the immune system (eg, effector cells).

According to the invention, the term "at least one CDR sequence" preferably means at least a CDR3 sequence. The term "CDR sequence of the antibody chain" preferably relates to CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 of the heavy or light chain of the antibody.

According to the present invention, reference to an antibody chain comprising a specific CDR sequence, such as a specific CDR3 sequence, refers to a CDR region in which the specific CDR3 sequence is the same as the CDR3 region of the antibody chain, ie, a CDR region consisting of the specific CDR sequence. It means forming or forming a CDR region, such as the CDR3 region of the antibody chain, that is, a portion of the CDR3 region comprising the specific CDR sequence.

According to the present invention, if reference is made to an antibody comprising a specific antibody heavy chain and/or a specific antibody light chain, such as a chain comprising a specific CDR sequence, both the heavy and/or light chains of the antibody, respectively, are specific antibody heavy chains and/or It is preferred to consist of a specific antibody light chain.

The term "humanized antibody" refers to a molecule having an antigen binding site that is substantially derived from immunoglobulins from non-human species, and the remaining immunoglobulin structure of the molecule is based on the structure and/or sequence of human immunoglobulins. The antigen binding site can include fully variable regions fused on constant domains or only complementarity determining regions (CDRs) grafted onto appropriate framework regions in variable domains. The antigen binding site can be wild-type or modified by one or more amino acid substitutions, such as modifications to more closely resemble human immunoglobulins. Some forms of humanized antibodies preserve all CDR sequences (eg, a humanized mouse antibody comprising all 6 CDRs from a mouse antibody). Other forms have one or more CDRs altered relative to the original antibody.

The term “chimeric antibody” is a portion of each amino acid sequence of the heavy and light chains that belongs to a particular class or is homologous to the corresponding sequences in antibodies derived from particular species, while remaining segments of the chain Is homologous to the corresponding sequences. Typically, the variable portions of the light and heavy chains resemble the variable portions of antibodies derived from one species of mammal, while the constant portions are homologous to the sequences of the antibodies derived otherwise. One obvious advantage of such chimeric forms is that the variable portion can be conveniently derived from currently known sources using hybridomas or B-cells readily available from non-human host organisms, eg, in combination with constant portions derived from a human cell sample. Is that you can. The variable region has the advantage of each preparation, and the specificity is not affected by the source, whereas the human constant region does not elicit an immune response from human subjects when antibodies are injected rather than the constant region from non-human sources. . However, the definition is not limited to this particular example.

As used herein, the term “antigen-binding portion” of an antibody (or simply, “binding portion”) refers to one or more fragments of an antibody that retain the ability to specifically bind to the antibody. It has been shown that the antigen-binding function of an antibody can be performed by fragments of a full-length antibody. Examples of binding fragments included within the term “antigen-binding portion” of an antibody include (i) Fab fragments, monovalent fragments consisting of VL, VH, CL and CH domains; (ii) F(ab') ₂ fragments, bivalent fragments comprising two Fab fragments linked by a disulfide bond at the hinge region; (iii) Fd fragments consisting of VH and CH domains; (iv) Fv fragments consisting of the VL and VH domains of a single arm of an antibody, (v) dAb fragments (Ward et al., (1989) Nature 341: 544-546), consisting of the VH domain; (vi) isolated complementarity determining regions (CDR), and (vii) combinations of two or more CDRs that can be optionally linked by a synthetic linker. In addition, although the two domains of VL and VH are encoded by isolated genes, the VL and VH regions are recombined by a synthetic linker that allows them to be made as a single protein chain paired to form monovalent molecules. It can be bound using methods (known as single chain Fv (scFv); Bird et al. (1988) Science 242: 423-426; and Huston et al. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85 : 5879-5883). It is contemplated that such single chain antibodies may be included within the term "antigen-binding portion" of the antibody. Additional examples include (i) an immunoglobulin hinge region polypeptide fused domain polypeptide, (ii) an immunoglobulin heavy chain fused to the hinge region CH2 constant region, and (iii) an immunoglobulin heavy chain CH3 constant region fused to the CH2 constant region. These include binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion proteins. The binding domain polypeptide can be a heavy chain variable region or a light chain variable region. Binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion proteins are additionally disclosed in US 2003/0118592 and US 2003/0133939. These antibody fragments are obtained using conventional techniques known to those skilled in the art, and the fragments are screened for use in the same way as intact antibodies.

The term “epitope” refers to an antigenic determinant for a molecule, ie the part of the molecule recognized by the immune system, eg, an antibody. For example, an epitope is an isolated three-dimensional site on an antigen, which is recognized by the immune system. In the context of the present invention, the epitope is preferably derived from the CLDN protein. Epitopes consist of chemically active surface groupings of molecules, including sugar side chains or amino acids, and generally have specific three-dimensional structural characteristics as well as specific charge characteristics. Conformational epitopes and unstructured epitopes are distinguished in that the binding to the former rather than the latter is lost in the presence of denaturing solvents. The epitope of a protein such as CLDN preferably comprises a contiguous or contiguous portion of the protein, preferably 5 to 100, preferably 5 to 50, more preferably 8 to 30, and most preferably 10 To 25 amino acids long, e.g., epitopes are preferably 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 It may be amino acid length.

“Discontinuous epitope” as used herein refers to a structural epitope on a protein antigen formed from at least two separate regions in the initial sequence of a protein.

A “bispecific molecule” is believed to include any agent, such as a protein, peptide or protein or peptide complex, which has two different binding specificities. For example, the molecule can bind or interact with an Fc receptor on the surface of (a) cell surface antigen, and (b) effector cells. The term “multispecific molecule” or “heterospecific molecule” is believed to include any agent, such as a protein, peptide or protein or peptide complex, which has two or more different binding specificities. For example, a molecule can bind or interact with (a) a cell surface antigen, (b) an Fc receptor on the surface of an effector cell, and (c) at least one other component. Thus, the invention includes, but is not limited to, bispecific, trispecific, tetraspecific, and other multispecific molecules directed to CLDN6 and other targets, including Fc receptors on effector cells. The term "bispecific antibodies" also includes diabodies. The variants are bivalent and the VH and VL domains are expressed in a single polypeptide chain, but using a linker that is too short to pair between two domains on the same chain, whereby the domains are complementary domains of different chains. And bispecific antibodies capable of generating two antigen binding sites (Holliger, P., et al. (1993) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90: 6444-6448; Poljak, RJ, et al. (1994) Structure 2: 1121-1123).

As used herein, the term “heteroantibody” relates to having two or more antibodies, derivatives thereof, or antigen binding regions bound together, having at least two different specificities. These different specificities include binding specificity for Fc receptors on effector cells, and binding specificity for antigens or epitopes on target cells, such as tumor cells.

The antibodies described herein can be human antibodies. The term "human antibody" as used herein is believed to include antibodies having variable regions and constant regions from human germline immunoglobulin sequences. Human antibodies of the invention can include amino acid residues that are not encoded by human germline immunoglobulin sequences (eg, randomly or by site-specific mutagenesis in vitro or somatic mutation in vivo).

The term "monoclonal antibody" as used herein refers to the preparation of antibody molecules of a single molecular composition. Monoclonal antibodies exhibit single binding specificity and affinity for a particular epitope. In one embodiment, monoclonal antibodies are produced by hybridomas comprising B cells obtained from a non-human animal, such as a mouse, fused to immortalized cells.

As used herein, the term “recombinant antibody” refers to (a) antibodies isolated from an immunoglobulin gene or a transchromosomal animal (eg, a mouse) transgenic with respect to a hybridoma produced therefrom, ( b) an immunoglobulin gene in a host cell transformed to express the antibody, e.g., antibodies isolated from transfectomas, (c) antibodies isolated from recombinant, combinatorial antibody libraries, and (d) other DNA sequences. All antibodies isolated, produced, expressed, or prepared by recombinant means, including antibodies isolated, produced, expressed, or produced by other means related to splicing of sequences.

As used herein, the term “transfectome” expresses antibodies including CHO cells, NS/0 cells, HEK293 cells, HEK293T cells, plant cells, or fungi containing yeast. Recombinant eukaryotic host cells.

As used herein, “heterologous antibody” is defined in relation to the transgenic organism that produces such an antibody. These terms encode nucleic acid sequences corresponding to those occurring in organisms that have an amino acid sequence or that do not constitute a transforming organism, and refer to antibodies generally derived from species other than the transforming organism.

As used herein, "heterohybrid antibody" refers to antibodies having light and heavy chains of different organisms. For example, an antibody having a human heavy chain associated with a murine light chain is a heterohybrid antibody.

The present invention includes all antibodies and derivatives of antibodies as described herein, the object of which is encompassed by the term “antibody”. The term "antibody derivative" refers to any modified form of an antibody, such as a conjugate of an antibody with another agent or antibody, or antibody fragment.

The antibodies described herein are preferably isolated. “Isolated antibody” as used herein is believed to represent antibodies that are free of other antibodies with different antigenic specificities (eg, an isolated antibody that specifically binds CLDN6 is not substantially CLDN6). Antibodies that specifically bind to them are free). An isolated antibody that specifically binds to an epitope, isoform or variant of human CLDN6 can, however, have cross-reactivity from other related antigens, such as other species (eg, CLDN6 species homologues). In addition, the isolated antibody may be substantially free of other cellular and/or chemical substances. In one embodiment of the invention, a combination of “isolated” monoclonal antibodies relates to antibodies that are mixed in well defined compositions with different specificities.

According to the present invention, an antibody is capable of binding to the predetermined target if the antibody has a remarkable affinity for the predetermined target and binds to the predetermined target during a standard assay such as the assay described herein. It is. Preferably, if the antibody detectably binds to the target during flow cytometry (FACS analysis) measuring the binding of the antibody to the target expressed on the surface of an intact cell, the antibody is capable of binding to the target. . Preferably, when the antibody is present at a concentration of 10 μg/ml or less, 5 μg/ml or less, or 2 μg/ml or less, the antibody detectably binds to the target. Preferably, when the antibody is present at a concentration of 50 nM or less, 30 nM or less, or 15 nM or less, the antibody detectably binds to the target. The “affinity” or “binding affinity” is often measured by the dissociation constant (K _D ). Preferably, the term "significant affinity" is 10 ^-5 M or less, 10 ^-6 M or less, 10 ^-7 M or less, 10 ^-8 M or less, 10 ^-9 M or less , ^Has a dissociation constant (K _D ) value of 10 ^-10 M or less, 10 ^-11 M or less, or 10 ^-12 M or less, and binds to a predetermined target. Antibodies of the invention are preferably 6500 ng/ml or less, 3000 ng/ml or less, 2500 ng/ml or less, 2000 ng/ml or less, 1500 ng/ for binding to CLDN6 ml or less, 1000 ng/ml or less, 500 ng/ml or less, 400 ng/ml or less, 300 ng/ml or less, 200 ng/ml or less, or 100 ng/ml Or less.

The antibody is (substantially) incapable of binding to the target unless it has a significant affinity for the target and does not significantly bind the target in a standard assay. Preferably, if the antibody does not detectably bind to the target during flow cytometry (FACS analysis) measuring the binding of the antibody to a target expressed on the surface of an intact cell, the antibody has the ability to bind to the target ( Practically). Preferably, the antibody is up to 2 μg/ml, preferably up to 5 μg/ml, preferably up to 10 μg/ml, preferably up to 20 μg/ml, more preferably up to 50 μg/ml, It does not detectably bind to the target, especially when present at concentrations up to 100 μg/ml, or up to 150 μg/ml, up to 200 μg/ml, or higher. Preferably the antibody is up to 15 nM, preferably up to 30 nM, preferably up to 50 nM, preferably up to 100 nM, preferably up to 150 nM, up to 170 nM, up to 300 mM, up to 600 nM, It does not detectably bind to the target even when present at concentrations up to 1000 nM, 1300 nM, or higher. Preferably the antibody does not detectably bind to the target even if it is present in a concentration that saturates the binding to the antibody, ie CLDN6. Preferably, at least 10-fold, 100-fold, 10 ³ -fold, 10 ⁴ -fold, 10 ⁵ -fold, or 10 ⁶ -fold over K _D for binding to a predetermined target to which the antibody can bind Even if the antibody has a higher K _D value and the antibody binds to the target, the antibody does not have a significant affinity. For example, if the K _D value for the binding of the antibody to the target, which antibody is capable of binding the 10 ^-7 M, K _D values for binding to the target antibody is not having a significant affinity at least ^{10- 6} M, 10 ^-5 M, 10 ^-4 M, 10 ^-3 M, 10 ^-2 M, or 10 ^-1 M.

If an antibody is unable to bind to another target, i.e. has no significant affinity to another target and does not significantly bind to another target in a standard assay, if it is capable of binding a predetermined target, The antibody is specific for the predetermined target. According to the present invention, if an antibody is capable of binding to CLDN6, but is unable to bind to other targets, specifically other Cludin proteins other than CLDN6, such as CLDN9, CLDN4, CLDN3 and CLDN1, the antibody is specific for CLDN6. will be. Preferably, affinity and binding to a CLDN6 other than CLDN6, such as CLDN9, CLDN4, CLDN3 and CLDN1, is directed against a claudin-independent protein such as bovine serum albumin (BSA), casein, human serum albumin (HSA). The antibody is specific for CLDN6, unless it significantly surpasses the affinity or binding, or affinity or binding to an MHC molecule or a non- claudin transmembrane protein such as a transferrin receptor, or other specific polypeptide. Preferably at least 10-fold, 100-fold, 10 ³ -fold, 10 ⁴ -fold, 10 ⁵ -fold, or 10 ⁶ -fold more than the K _D value for binding to an antibody that is not specific If it binds to a predefined target with a low K _D value, the antibody is specific for that target. For example, if an antibody has a K _D value for binding to a specific target of 10 ^-7 M, the K _D value for binding to a target for which it is not specific is at least 10 ^-6 M, 10 ^-5 M, 10 ^-4 M, 10 ^-3 M, 10 ^-2 M, or 10 ^-1 M.

The binding of an antibody to a target can be determined empirically using any suitable method, see, for example, Berzofsky et al., "Antibody-Antigen Interactions" In Fundamental Immunology, Paul, WE, Ed., Raven Press New York, NY (1984), Kuby, Janis Immunology, WH Freeman and Company New York, NY (1992)) and the methods described herein. Use of equilibrium dialysis; Use of BIAcore 2000 instruments using general procedures outlined by the manufacturer; By radioimmunoassay using radiolabeled target antigen; Alternatively, affinity can be readily determined using conventional techniques, such as by another method known to the skilled artisan. Affinity data can be analyzed, for example, by the method of the paper (Scatchard et al., Ann NY Acad. ScL, 51:660 (1949)). If measured at different conditions (eg salt concentration, pH), the measured affinity of a particular antibody-antigen binding can be varied. Therefore, measurement of affinity and other antigen-binding parameters such as K _D , IC ₅₀ is preferably made using standardized antibodies and antigen solutions and standardized buffers.

A unique feature of the antibodies of the invention is the ability to bind to the cell surface claudin 6. This is determined by flow cytometry analysis of cells expressing cloudin 6.

Flow cytometry can be used to test the binding of monoclonal antibodies to living cells expressing claudin. Briefly, cell lines expressing membrane-bound claudin (cultured under standard growth conditions) are mixed with antibodies of various concentrations in PBS containing 2% heat inactive FCS and 0.1% NaN ₃ for 30 minutes at 4 ^° C. After washing, cells are reacted with a fluorescently labeled secondary antibody under the same conditions as in primary antibody staining. Using SS (side scatter) properties that signal light and single cells, samples can be analyzed by FACS and binding of labeled antibodies can be measured.

In accordance with the present invention, the term "binding" relates to the specific binding defined herein.

As used herein, “isotype” refers to an antibody class (eg, IgM or IgG1) encoded by heavy chain constant region genes.

As used herein, “isotype switching” refers to the phenomenon by changing the class or isotype of antibodies from one Ig class to one of the other Ig classes.

As used herein, the term “naturally occurring” as used herein refers to the fact that the purpose can be found in nature. For example, a polypeptide or polynucleotide sequence that occurs in an organism (including viruses) that can be isolated from a source in nature and has not been intentionally modified by humans in the laboratory occurs naturally.

As used herein, the term "rearranged" refers to the arrangement of a heavy or light chain immunoglobulin locus, where the V segment is essentially a DJ or in a structure encoding a complete VH or VL domain. It is immediately adjacent to the J segment. The rearranged immunoglobulin (antibody) gene locus can be identified by comparison with germline DNA; The rearranged locus will have at least one recombinant heptamer/nanomer homology element.

The term "unrearranged" or "germline arrangement" as used herein in reference to a V segment refers to an arrangement in which the V segment is not recombined and is directly adjacent to the D or J segment.

The term "nucleic acid molecule" as used herein is believed to contain DNA molecules and RNA molecules. The nucleic acid molecule can be single-stranded or double-stranded, but is preferably double-stranded DNA. Nucleic acid molecules can be employed for introduction into cells, ie infection, in the form of RNA, which can be produced, for example, by in vitro transcription from a DNA template. RNA can be further modified prior to application by stabilization sequences, capping and polyadenylation.

The nucleic acids described according to the invention are preferably isolated. The term “isolated nucleic acid” refers to a nucleic acid according to the present invention that is (i) amplified in vitro, such as by PCR, (ii) recombinantly produced by cloning, or (iii) by cleavage and gel electrophoresis fraction. Or purified by (iv), for example, chemical synthesis. Isolated nucleic acids are nucleic acids that can be used for manipulation by recombinant DNA technology.

The nucleic acids according to the present invention may exist alone or in combination with other nucleic acids, which may be homologous or heterologous. In a preferred embodiment, the nucleic acid is functionally linked to expression control sequences that may be homologous or heterologous with respect to the nucleic acid, wherein the term "homologous" means that the nucleic acid is also functionally linked to the expression control sequence naturally. Meaning, "heterologous" means that the nucleic acid is not naturally functionally linked to the expression control sequence.

If the nucleic acid and expression control sequences are covalently linked to each other in such a way that the expression or transcription of the nucleic acid is regulated or under the influence of the expression control sequence, nucleic acids, including nucleic acids expressing RNA and/or proteins or peptides, and Expression control sequences are “functionally” linked to each other. If the nucleic acid is translated into a functional protein and then with an expression control sequence functionally linked to the coding sequence, causing a frame shift in the coding sequence or the coding sequence that cannot be translated into the desired protein or peptide Without, the induction of the expression control sequence causes transcription of the nucleic acid.

The term "expression control sequence" includes promoters, ribosomal binding sites, enhancers, and other regulatory elements that regulate the transcription of a gene or the translation of an mRNA in accordance with the present invention. In particular embodiments of the invention, the expression control sequences can be adjusted. The exact structure of the expression control sequences may vary depending on the function of the cell type or species, but 5'-nontransferred and 5'- and related to transcription and translation initiation, including TATA box, capping sequence, CAAT sequence, and similar species Each of the 3'-untranslated sequences is generally included. More specifically, the 5'-nontranscribed translational regulatory sequence comprises a promoter region comprising a promoter sequence for transcriptional regulation of functionally linked nucleic acids. Expression control sequences may also include enhancer sequences or upstream activator sequences.

The term “promoter” or “promoter region” according to the present invention relates to a nucleic acid sequence located upstream (5′) to the nucleic acid sequence to be expressed and sequenced by providing recognition and binding sites for RNA-polymerase. Regulates the expression of "Promoter region" additionally includes recognition and binding sites for additional factors involved in the transcriptional regulation of genes. Promoters can regulate the transcription of prokaryotic or eukaryotic genes. In addition, the promoter can be “inducible”, can initiate transcription in response to an inducer, or can be “structural” if transcription is not regulated by an inducer. If there is no inducer, the gene is not expressed under the control of an inducible promoter, or only expressed in a small range. In the presence of an inducer, the gene is switched on or the level of transcription is increased. It is usually mediated by the binding of specific transcription factors.

Preferred promoters according to the present invention include promoters for SP6, T3 and T7 polymerases, human U6 RNA promoters, CMV promoters, and parts or portions including, for example, human glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH). Its artificial hybrid promoters (eg, CMV) fused with a portion or parts of promoters of genes of other cellular proteins and promoters with or without additional intron(s).

According to the present invention, the term “expression” is used in the most general sense and includes the production of RNA or RNA and proteins/peptides. It also includes partial expression of nucleic acids. Further, expression can be performed temporarily or stably. According to the present invention, the term expression also includes "variant expression" or "abnormal expression".

"Variation expression" or "abnormal expression" means that the expression is altered, preferably increased, compared to a reference according to the invention, preferably compared to a condition in a non-tumor normal cell or a healthy individual. . An increase in expression means an increase of at least 10%, especially at least 20%, at least 50% or at least 100%. In one embodiment, expression is inhibited in healthy tissue, whereas expression is found only in diseased tissue.

In a preferred embodiment, the nucleic acid according to the invention is present in a vector and, appropriately with a promoter, it regulates the expression of the nucleic acid. The term "vector" is used in its broadest sense and includes any intermediary vehicle for nucleic acids that introduces the nucleic acid into, for example, prokaryotic and/or eukaryotic cells and inserts into the genome, as appropriate. Vectors of this kind are preferably cloned and/or expressed in cells. Vectors include plasmid, phagemid, bacteriophage or viral genomes. The term "plasmid", as used herein, generally relates to the structure of an extrachromosomal genetic material, usually the structure of a circular DNA duplex, which can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA.

As a vector for the expression of the antibody, a vector type in which the antibody heavy and light chains are present in different vectors or a vector type in which the heavy and light chains are present in the same vector may also be used.

Modifications (i.e. variants) of the specific sequences representing sequences that are functionally equivalent to the specific sequences, such as those shown in the disclosures given herein with respect to specific nucleic acid and amino acid sequences, e.g., It should be interpreted to relate to nucleic acid sequences encoding amino acid sequences showing similar or identical characteristics to those of the amino acid sequence encoded by a specific nucleic acid sequence and amino acid sequences showing identical or similar characteristics to those of specific amino acid sequences. do. One important feature is to maintain the effector function of the antibody, such as CDC and/or ADCC, or to retain the binding of the antibody to its target. Preferably, a sequence modified with respect to a specific sequence, when it replaces a specific sequence in an antibody, preferably functions of the antibodies as disclosed herein, and binding of the antibody to a target. To maintain.

Similarly, the teachings given herein in the context of specific antibodies or hybridomas that produce specific antibodies feature modified amino acid sequences and/or nucleic acid sequences compared to the amino acid sequence and/or nucleic acid sequence of a specific antibody. However, it will also be interpreted as related to functionally equivalent antibodies. One important property is to retain the binding of the antibody to its target or to sustain the effector function of the antibody. Preferably, a sequence modified with respect to a specific sequence, even if it replaces a specific sequence in the antibody, binds the antibody to the target and preferably the function of the antibody as described herein, ie CDC mediated lysis Or maintain ADCC mediated lysis.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the sequences, hypervariability and variant regions of the CDR in particular can be modified without losing the ability to bind the target. For example, CDR regions will be identical or highly homologous to the regions of the antibodies specified herein. It is contemplated that by "highly homologous", substitutions of 1 to 5, preferably 1 to 4, including 1 to 3 or 1 or 2 substitutions, are made in the CDRs. Additionally, hypervariables and variable regions can be modified to show substantial homology with regions of the antibodies specifically disclosed herein.

It is understood that the specific nucleic acids disclosed herein also contain modified nucleic acids to optimize codon usage in particular host cells or organisms. Differences in codon use among organisms lead to various problems with heterologous gene expression. Codon optimization by altering one or more nucleotides of the original sequence can result in optimization of nucleic acid expression in a homologous or heterologous host in which the nucleic acid is expressed, particularly optimization of translation efficiency.

According to the invention, the nucleic acid sequence, amino acid sequence or variant, derivative, modified form or fragment of the peptide preferably has the functional properties of the nucleic acid sequence, amino acid sequence, or peptide from which they are derived, respectively. Such functional properties include interactions or binding with other molecules. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid sequence, amino acid sequence or variant, derivative, modified form or fragment of the peptide is immunologically equivalent to the nucleic acid sequence, amino acid sequence or peptide from which they are derived.

The degree of identity between a particular nucleic acid sequence and a nucleic acid sequence that is modified or a variant thereof for the particular nucleic acid sequence is preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 75%, more preferably at least 80%, and more Preferably at least 90% or most preferably at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99%. Preferably, the degree of identity for CLDN6 nucleic acid variants is given for regions of at least about 300, at least about 400, at least about 450, at least about 500, at least about 550, at least about 600 or at least about 630 nucleotides. In a preferred embodiment, the degree of identity is given over the entire length of the reference nucleic acid sequence, such as the nucleic acid sequence given in the sequence listing. Preferably, the two sequences can form a stable duplex with each other, with hybridization and preferably hybridization performed under conditions that allow specific hybridization between polynucleotides (strict conditions). Stringent conditions are described, for example, in Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, J. Sambrook et al., Editors, 2nd Edition, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory press, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 1989 or Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, FM Ausubel et al. , Editors, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, e.g. hybridization buffer (3.5 x SSC, 0.02% picol, 0.02% polyvinylpyrrolidone, 0.02% bovine serum albumin, 2.5 mM NaH ₂ PO ₄ (pH 7), 0.5% SDS, 2 mM EDTA) at 65°C. SSC is 0.15 M sodium chloride/0.15 M sodium citrate, pH 7. After hybridization, the DNA-transferred membrane is washed with, for example, 2 X SSC at room temperature, then raised to a temperature of 68°C and washed with 0.1-0.5 x SSC/0.1 x SDS.

According to the invention, the term “variant” also includes mutants, splice variants, conformations, isoforms, allelic variants, species variants and species homologues, which are particularly naturally present. Allelic variants are associated with alterations in the normal sequence of genes, the importance of which is often unclear. Complete gene sequencing often identifies numerous allelic variants for a given gene. A species homologue is a nucleic acid or amino acid sequence having a species origin different from that of a given nucleic acid or amino acid sequence.

For the purposes of the present invention, “variants” of amino acid sequences include amino acid insertion variants, amino acid addition variants, amino acid lacking variants and/or amino acid substitution variants. Amino acid-deficient variants, including the N-terminal and/or C-terminal lack of proteins, are also referred to as N-terminal and/or C-terminal truncation variants.

Amino acid insertion variants include the insertion of one or more amino acids in a particular amino acid sequence. For amino acid sequence variants with insertions, random insertions with appropriate screening of the product are also possible, but one or more amino acid residues are inserted into specific regions of the amino acid sequence.

Amino acid addition variants include amino- and/or carboxy-terminal fusions of one or more amino acids, such as 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, 50 or more amino acids.

Amino acid-deficient variants are characterized by removing one or more amino acids from a sequence, such as by removing one, two, three, five, ten, twenty, thirty, fifty or more amino acids. The deficiency can be anywhere on the protein.

Amino acid substitution variants are characterized by removing at least one residue in the sequence and inserting another residue at that position. It is preferred to modify the amino acid sequence region that is not conserved between homologous proteins or peptides and/or to replace the amino acid with another having similar properties. Preferably, the amino acid change in the protein variant is a conservative amino acid change, i. Conservative amino acid changes are related to one substitution of the family of amino acids associated with its side chains. Naturally occurring amino acids are generally divided into four groups: acidic amino acids (aspartic, glutamate), basic amino acids (lysine, arginine, histidine), non-polar amino acids (alanine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, proline, Phenylalanine, methionine, tryptophan), and non-chargeable polar amino acids (glycine, asparagine, glutamine, cysteine, serine, threonine, tyrosine). Phenylalanine, tryptophan and tyrosine are sometimes grouped together as aromatic amino acids.

With respect to the amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 37, the term variant specifically refers to a sequence in which the cysteine at position 46 is substituted with an amino acid other than the aforementioned amino acid, preferably cysteine such as glycine or serine.

Preferably, the degree of similarity, preferably identity, between a specific amino acid sequence and an amino acid sequence that is modified or related to the specific amino acid sequence, such as between amino acid sequences exhibiting substantial homology, is at least. 70%, preferably at least 80%, better at least 90% or even better at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99%. Preferably, the degree of similarity or identity to the amino acid region is at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60% of the length of the reference amino acid sequence, For amino acid regions that are at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90% or about 100%. For example, when the reference amino acid sequence consists of 200 amino acids, the degree of similarity or identity is preferably at least about 20, at least about 40, at least about 60, at least about 80, at least about 100, at least about 120, at least about 140 , For at least about 160, at least about 180, or about 200 amino acids, preferably for consecutive amino acids.

With regard to CLDN6 polypeptide variants, the degree of similarity or identity is preferably for a region of at least about 100, at least about 120, at least about 140, at least about 160, at least about 180, at least about 200, or at least about 210 amino acids Is given. In a preferred embodiment, the degree of similarity or identity is given over the entire length of the reference amino acid sequence, such as the amino acid sequence shown in the sequence listing. Alignment for determining sequence similarity, preferably sequence identification, using tools known in the art, preferably using the best sequence alignment, eg, using Align, standard settings, preferably EMBOSS:: Needle, Matrix: Blosum62, Gap Open 10.0, Gap Extend 0.5.

“Sequence similarity” refers to the percentage of amino acids that represent identical or conservative amino acid substitutions. “Sequence identity” between two polypeptide or nucleic acid sequences refers to the percentage of amino acids or nucleotides that are identical between sequences.

"Percentage identity" is obtained after best alignment, this percentage is purely statistical, and differences between the two sequences are randomly distributed over the entire length. Sequence comparisons between two nucleotide or amino acid sequences are traditionally performed by comparing these sequences after optimally aligning them, the comparison being performed by "compare window to compare and identify local regions of sequence similarity." "Or by segment. Optimal alignment of sequences for comparison is done by hand as well as by Smith and Waterman, 1981, Ads App. Math. 2, by the local homology algorithm of 482, or by Neddleman and Wunsch, 1970, J. Mol. Biol. 48, 443 by local homology algorithms, or by Pearson and Lipman, 1988, Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. Computer programs (GAP, BESTFIT, FASTA, BLAST P, BLAST N and TFASTA in Wisconsin Genetics Software Package, Genetics Computer Group, 575 Science Drive, Madison, Wis) by the similarity investigation method of USA 85, 2444, or using these algorithms .), can be produced.

Percent identity is calculated by measuring the number of identical positions between two sequences being compared, dividing this number by the number of positions being compared, and multiplying by 100 to obtain the percentage identity between the two sequences to obtain the result.

“Conservative substitutions” are made, for example, based on similarity in polarity, charge, solubility, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, and/or amphoteric properties of related residues. For example, (a) non-polar (hydrophobic) amino acids contain alanine, leucine, isoleucine, valine, proline, phenylalanine, tryptophan and methionine; (b) polar neutral amino acids contain glycine, serine, threonine, cysteine, tyrosine, asparagine, and glutamine; (c) positively charged (base) amino acids contain arginine, lysine, and histidine; (d) Negatively charged (acidic) amino acids contain aspartic acid and glutamic acid. Substitutions can typically be made within groups (a)-(d). Additionally, glycine and proline can be substituted for each other based on their ability to disrupt [alpha]-helices. Some preferred substitutions are the following groups: (i) S and T; (ii) P and G; And (iii) A, V, L and I. With known genetic code, recombinant and synthetic DNA techniques, skilled scientists can easily construct DNAs encoding conservative amino acid variants.

The present invention includes antibodies in which alterations are made in the Fc region to change the functional or pharmacodynamic properties of the antibodies. Such alterations can result in decreased or increased C1q binding and CDC or FcgR binding and ADCC. Substitutions can be made, for example, at amino acid residues of one or more heavy chain constant regions, thereby altering effector function while preserving the ability to bind antigen compared to antibodies modified (see US 5,624,821 and US 5,648,260) ).

The in vivo half-life of an antibody is salvage of an Ig-like constant region or an Ig constant region, such that the molecule does not contain an intact CH2 domain or an intact Ig Fc region (see US 6,121,022 and US 6,194,551). Can be enhanced by modifying the receptor epitope. The half-life in vivo can also be increased by making a mutation in the Fc region, for example, by substituting leucine at position 252 for threonine, serine at 254 for threonine, and phenylalanine at position 256 for threonine (see US 6,277,375). .

In addition, the glycosylation pattern of the antibodies can be modified to change the effector function of the antibodies. For example, the antibodies, fucose generally bound to Asn at position 297 of the Fc region to increase the affinity of the Fc region for the Fc-receptor, where increased ADCC of antibodies in the presence of NK cells can alternately occur ( fucose) can be expressed in transfectomas that add units (see Shield et al. (2002) JBC, 277: 26733). In addition, modifications of galactosylation can be made to modify CDC.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, the mutations can be introduced randomly along all or part of the anti-CLDN6 antibody encoding sequence, such as by saturation mutagenesis.

According to the present invention, the term “cell” or “host cell” preferably relates to a cell having an intact membrane that does not release conventional intracellular components such as intact cells, enzymes, organs or genetic material. An intact cell is preferably a living cell, that is, a living cell capable of performing its normal metabolic function. Preferably, the term according to the invention relates to any cell capable of being transformed or infected with an exogenous nucleic acid. The term “cell” includes prokaryotic cells (eg E. coli) or advanced cells (eg dendritic cells, B cells, CHO cells, COS cells, K562 cells, HEK293 cells, HELA cells, yeast cells and insect cells) according to the present invention. do. Exogenous nucleic acids can be found inside cells (i) freely dispersed by themselves, (ii) incorporated into recombinant vectors, or (iii) integrated into the host cell genome or mitochondrial DNA. Particular preference is given to mammalian cells such as humans, mice, hamsters, pigs, goats and primates. The cells can be derived from a number of tissue types and can include primary cells and cell lines. Specific examples include keratinocytes, peripheral blood leukocytes, bone marrow stem cells and embryonic stem cells. In a further embodiment, the cells are antigen presenting cells, in particular dendritic cells, monocytes or macrophages. The term "host cell" as used herein refers to a cell into which a recombinant expression vector has been introduced.

Cells comprising a nucleic acid molecule preferably express a peptide or protein encoded by the nucleic acid.

The term "transgenic animal" includes one or more transgenes, preferably heavy and/or light chain transplant genes or transchromosomes (inserted or non-inserted into the animal's natural genomic DNA). It represents an animal having a genome to be expressed, and preferably capable of expressing transplanted genes. For example, a transgenic mouse can have a human light chain transplant gene and a human heavy chain transplant gene or a human heavy chain transchromosome, and the mouse produces human anti-CLDN6 antibodies when immunized with CLDN6 and/or CLDN6 expressing cells. The heavy chain transplant gene can be inserted into the chromosomal DNA of a mouse, such as in the case of HuMAb mice, including transgenic mice, such as HCo7 or HCol2 mice, or the human heavy chain transplant gene is transchromosomal, as described in WO 02/43478 (Eg, KM) As in the case of mice, it can be maintained extrachromosomally. Such transgenic and transchromosomal mice can produce various isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6 (eg, IgG, IgA and/or IgE) by undergoing V-D-J recombination and isotype switching.

As used herein, "reduction" or "inhibition" is a level, that is, in the level of cell proliferation, the overall reduction, preferably 5% or more, 10% or more, 20% or more, more preferably 50% or more And, most preferably, an ability to cause a reduction of 75% or more. The term “inhibition” or similar phrase includes complete or essentially complete inhibition, ie reduction to zero or essentially zero.

Terms such as “increase” or “promotion” are at least about 10%, preferably at least about 20%, preferably at least about 30%, more preferably at least about 40%, more preferably at least about 50%, Even better, it preferably relates to an increase or promotion of at least about 80%, and most preferably at least 100%. These terms may also relate to environments where there is no detectable signal for a particular compound or condition when time is zero, and there is a detectable signal for a particular compound or condition at a time later than zero.

The term "immunologically equivalent" means that an immunologically equivalent molecule, such as an immunologically equivalent amino acid sequence, is, for example, a humoral and/or cellular immune response, the intensity and/or duration of an induced immune response, or induction. With respect to the form of the immunological effect, such as the specificity of the immune response, it means to exhibit the same or essentially the same immunological properties and/or to exert the same or essentially the same immunological effect. In the context of the present invention, the term "immunologically equivalent" is preferably used in relation to the immunological effect or properties of a peptide or peptide variant used for immunity. Certain immunological properties are the ability to bind to an antibody and produce an immune response by, where appropriate, preferably stimulating antibody production. For example, when an amino acid sequence induces an antibody having specificity of reaction with a reference amino acid sequence, such as a reference amino acid that forms part of an immune response, preferably CLDN6, when exposed to the subject's immune system, the amino acid sequence Is immunologically equivalent to the reference amino acid sequence.

In the context of the present invention, the term “immune effector function” is any function mediated by components of the immune system that cause inhibition of tumor growth and/or inhibition of tumor development, including inhibition of tumor spreading and metastasis. It includes. Preferably, the immune effector function causes the killing of tumor cells. Preferably, the immune effector function in the context of the present invention is an antibody-mediated effector function. Such functions are complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibodies, eg, by binding of antibodies to surface antigens, and/or inhibiting the proliferation of cells carrying tumor-associated antigens, preferably by ADCC and/or CDC. -Dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), induction of apoptosis of cells that deliver tumor-associated antigens. Thus, antibodies capable of mediating one or more immune effector functions are preferably CDC-mediated lysis, ADCC-mediated lysis, apoptosis, isoform adhesion and/or phagocytosis, preferably CDC mediated lysis and/or ADCC. It can mediate cell killing by inducing mediated lysis. In addition, antibodies may exert an effect by simply binding to a tumor-associated antigen on the surface of tumor cells. For example, antibodies can block tumor-associated antigen function or induce apoptosis by only binding to tumor-related antigens on the surface of tumor cells.

Detailed description of the invention

Mechanism of mAb action

Although the following provides consideration regarding mechanisms based on the therapeutic efficacy of the antibodies of the invention, it is not considered to limit the invention in any way.

Antibodies disclosed herein can interact with factors of the immune system, preferably through ADCC or CDC. The antibodies of the invention can also be used for target payloads that directly kill tumor cells, or complement the action that may contain an anti-tumor immune response that can be compromised due to chemotherapeutic cytotoxic side effects in T lymphocytes. Traditional chemotherapeutic agents can be used synergistically to attack the tumor through an underlying mechanism. However, the antibodies of the invention may also exert their efficacy by simply binding to CLDN6 on the cell surface, thereby blocking the proliferation of cells.

Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity

ADCC describes the cell killing capacity of effector cells, particularly lymphocytes, as disclosed herein, which preferably requires target cells marked by the antibody.

ADCC preferably occurs when antibodies bind antigen on tumor cells, and antibody Fc domains engage Fc receptors on the surface of immune effector cells. Several families of Fc receptors have been identified, and specific cell populations express characterized Fc receptors. ADCC can be thought of as a mechanism to directly induce various degrees of immediate tumor destruction leading to antigenic indication and induction of tumor related T cell responses. Preferably, induction of ADCC results in tumor-related T cell responses and host-derived antibody responses.

Complement dependent cytotoxicity

CDC is another method of cell killing that can be directed by antibodies. IgM is the most effective isotype for complement activity. IgG1 and IgG3 are very effective in directing CDC through a typical complement activity pathway. Preferably, in this cascade, the formation of antigen-antibody complexes is closely related to multiple C1qs on the CH2 domain participating antibody molecules, including the IgG molecule (C1q is one of the three subfactors of complement C1). Causes exposure of binding sites. Preferably, this exposed C1q binding site converts the previously low affinity C1q-IgG interaction into high avidity, which results in one cascade action involving a different series of complement proteins, effector Cell chemotaxis/proteolytic release of activators C3a and C5a. Preferably, in the formation of the membrane, the complement cascade ends attack the complex, which forms a hole in the cell membrane that promotes free passage of solute and water inside and outside the cell.

Production of antibodies

Antibodies of the invention can be produced by a variety of techniques, including conventional monoclonal antibody methodologies, such as standard somatic hybridization techniques of Kohler and Milstein, Nature 256: 495 (1975). Although somatic hybridization procedures are preferred, other techniques for producing monoclonal antibodies can be developed, eg, viral or tumor transformation of B-lymphocytes or phages represents a technique using a library of antibody genes.

The preferred animal system for producing hybridomas that secrete monoclonal antibodies is the murine family. Hybridoma production in mice is a very well established procedure. Immunization protocols and techniques for the isolation of immunized spleen lymphocytes for fusion are well known in the art. Fusion procedures with fusion partners (eg, murine bone marrow cells) are also known.

Other preferred animal systems for making hybridomas that secrete monoclonal antibodies are the rat and rabbit systems (eg, Spieker-Polet et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 92:9348 (1995) , Rossi et al., Am. J. Clin. Pathol. 124: 295 (2005).

In other embodiments, human monoclonal antibodies directed against CLDN6 can be generated using transgenic or transchromosomal mice that perform portions of the human immune system rather than the mouse system. These transgenic and transchromosomal mice are known as HuMab mice and KM mice, respectively, and are collectively referred to herein as “genetically transplanted mice”. Production of human antibodies in such transgenic mice can be performed as described in detail for CD20 in WO2004 035607.

Another strategy for generating monoclonal antibodies is, for example, Babcock et al., 1996; Directly separating the gene encoding the antibody from the lymphocytes producing the antibody of the defined strategy, referring to a novel strategy for producing monoclonal antibodies from single isolated lymphocytes producing the antibody of the defined strategy. . For further details of recombinant antibody engineering, see also, Weschsch and Kraus, Recombinant antibodes for cancer therapy ISBN-0-89603-918-8 and Benny K.C. Lo Antibody Engineering ISBN 1-58829-092-1.

Immunization

To generate an antibody against CLDN6, mice immunized with a carrier-conjugated peptide derived from the CLDN6 sequence, the described CLDN6, a recombinantly expressed enriched preparation or fragment thereof and/or cells expressing CLDN6 or fragments thereof Can be. Alternatively, mice can be immunized with DNA encoding full-length human CLDN6 or fragments thereof. When immunization with a purified or enriched preparation of CLDN6 antigen does not produce an antibody, mice can also be immunized with cells expressing CLDN6, such as cell lines, to promote an immune response.

The immune response can be monitored as a course of immunization protocol with plasma and serum samples obtained by tail vein or retroorbital bleeds. Mice with sufficient titers of anti-CLDN6 immunoglobulin can be used for fusion. Mice can be sacrificed and boosted intraperitoneally or intravenously with CLDN6 expressing cells for 3 to 5 days prior to spleen removal to increase the proportion of specific antibodies that secrete hybridomas.

Generation of hybridomas that produce monoclonal antibodies

To generate hybridomas that produce monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6, lymph node cells and spleen lymphocytes from immunized mice can be isolated and fused to appropriate immortalized cell lines, including mouse bone marrow cell lines. The resulting hybridomas can then be screened for production of antigen specific antibodies. Then, each well can be screened by ELISA for hybridomas that secrete antibodies. Antibodies specific for CLDN6 can be identified by immunofluorescence and FACS using CLDN6 expressing cells. The antibody-secreting hybridomas can be replated and screened again, and subcloned by limiting dilution if still positive for anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies. Stable subclones can then be cultured in vitro to generate antibodies in tissue culture medium for characterization.

Generation of transfectomas that produce monoclonal antibodies

Antibodies of the invention can be produced in host cell transfectomas using, for example, a combination of recombinant DNA techniques and gene transfection methods well known in the art (Morrison, S. (1985) Science 229: 1202).

For example, in one embodiment, the gene(s) of interest, such as antibody genes, are used by the GS gene expression system disclosed in WO 87/04462, WO 89/01036 and EP 338 841 or other expression systems well known in the art. And expression vectors, including eukaryotic expression plasmids. Purified plasmids with cloned antibody genes will be introduced into CHO cells, NS/0 cells, HEK293T cells or HEK293 cells or alternatively eukaryotic cells such as plant derived cells, fungi or yeast cells. Can. The method used to introduce these genes can be methods described in the art, including electroporation, lipofectin, lipofectamine or others. After introduction of these antibody genes into the host cell, cells expressing the antibody are identified and selected. These cells then represent a transfectoma that can be amplified for its expression level and upscaled to produce antibodies. Recombinant antibodies can be isolated and purified from these culture supernatants and/or cells.

Alternatively, cloned antibody genes can be expressed in other expression systems containing prokaryotic cells, including microorganisms, including E. coli. In addition, antibodies can be produced in transgenic non-human animals or transgenic plants, such as in milk from sheep or rabbits or in hen eggs (Verma, R., et al. (1998) J. Immunol. Meth. 216: 165-181; Pollock, et al. (1999) J. Immunol. Meth. 231: 147-157; and Fischer, R., et al. (1999) Biol. Chem. 380: 825- 839).

Use of partial antibody sequences to express intact antibodies (ie humanized and chimerized)

a) Chimerization

Murine monoclonal antibodies can be used as therapeutic antibodies in humans when labeled with toxins or radioactive isotopes. Unlabeled murine antibodies are highly immune in humans when it repeatedly leads to a decrease in therapeutic effect. The immunogenicity of murine antibodies is mediated by the heavy chain constant region. The immunogenicity of murine antibodies in humans can be reduced or completely prevented if each antibody is chimerized or humanized. Chimeric antibodies are antibodies, and are different parts derived from different animal species, including variable parts derived from murine antibodies and human immunoglobulin constant parts. Chimerization of antibodies is accomplished by combining the constant regions of human heavy and light chains with the constant regions of murine antibody heavy and light chains (e.g., Kraus et al., in Methods in Molecular Biology series, Recombinant antibodies for cancer therapy ISBN-0- 89603-918-8). In a preferred way, chimerized antibodies can be generated by binding the constant portion of a human kappa light chain to the variable portion of a murine light chain. Another preferred method of chimerizing antibodies is to bind the constant region of the human lambda light chain to the variable region of the murine light chain. Preferred heavy chain constant regions for the production of chimeric antibodies are IgG1, IgG3 and IgG4. Other preferred heavy chain constant regions for the production of chimeric antibodies are IgG2, IgA, IgD and IgM.

b) Humanization

Antibodies react predominantly with target antigens through amino acid residues present in the six heavy and light chain CDRs. Because of this, the amino acid sequences inside the CDR are more diverse between the antibodies than the sequences outside the CDR. Because CDR sequences play a critical role in most antibody-antigen reactions, they contain CDR sequences from specifically occurring antibodies that are grafted onto framework sequences from different antibodies with different properties. By constructing expression vectors, it is possible to express recombinant antibodies that mimic the properties of specific naturally occurring antibodies (eg, Riechmann, L. et al. (1998) Nature 332: 323-327; Jones, P. et al. (1986) Nature 321: 522-525; and Queen, C. et al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86: 10029-10033). Such framework sequences can be obtained from public DNA databases containing germline antibody gene sequences. This germline sequence will be different from the mature antibody gene sequence, as they will not contain the fully bound variable gene produced by the binding of V(D)J during the maturation stage of B cells. Germline gene sequences will also differ from each high affinity secondary repertoire antibody evenly distributed throughout the variable region. For example, somatic mutations are relatively infrequent in the amino terminal portion of framework region 1 and the carboxyl terminal portion of framework region 4. In addition, many somatic mutations do not significantly alter the binding properties of antibodies. Therefore, it is not necessary to obtain the entire DNA sequence of a specific antibody in order to reproduce an intact recombinant antibody having properties similar to the binding properties of the original antibody (WO 99/45962). For this purpose, only a portion of the heavy and light chain sequences spanning the corresponding CDR region is sufficient. This subsequence is used to find out which germ cell variable and binding gene segments contributed to the recombinant antibody variable gene.

The germline sequence then fills in the missing part of the variable region. The heavy and light chain leading sequences are cleaved during protein maturation and have no effect on the properties of the final antibody. To add missing sequences, cloned cDNA sequences can be combined with synthetic oligonucleotides through ligation or PCR amplification. Or instead, the entire variable region may be synthesized by a single set of short and overlapping oligonucleotides to generate a synthetic variable region clone as a whole, and may be synthesized through PCR amplification. This process has advantages such as removal or containment, specific restriction sites, or optimization of specific codons.

The nucleotide sequences of heavy and light chain transcripts from hybridomas are used to design overlapping sets of synthetic nucleotides to produce synthetic V sequences with the same amino acid coding ability as the natural sequence. These synthetic heavy chain and kappa chain sequences can differ from the natural sequence in three ways: First, the strings of repeating nucleotide bases are interrupted to promote oligonucleotide synthesis and PCR amplification; Second, optimal translation initiation sites are merged according to Kozak's rules (Kozak, 1991, J. Biol. Chem. 266: 19867-19870); Third, HindIII sites are engineered upstream of translation initiation sites.

For the heavy and light chain variable regions, the optimized coding and hence noncoding, strand sequences are split into 30-50 nucleotides. Thus, in each chain, oligonucleotides can be combined into overlapping double stranded sets spanning 150-400 nucleotide segments. This pool is again used as a template to generate PCR amplification products of 150-400 nucleotides. Typically, a single variable region oligonucleotide set is amplified separately to produce two overlapping PCR products. The overlapping products thus generated are again combined by PCR amplification to form a complete variable region. In order to generate fragments that can be easily cloned into expression vector constructs, it may be desirable to include overlapping fragments of heavy or light chain constant regions in PCR amplification within PCR amplification.

The reconstructed chimerized or humanized heavy and light chain variable regions combine with the cloned promoter, leader, translation initiation, constant region, 3'untranslated, polyadenylation, transcription termination sequence to form an expression vector construct. Heavy and light chain expression constructs can be combined into a single vector, co-transfected into a host cell, continuously transfected, or individually transfected. These host cells are then combined to form a host cell that expresses both chains. The plasmid used for the construction of the expression vector for human IgGK will be described. This plasmid can be constructed so that the PCR amplified V heavy chain and V kappa light chain cDNA sequences can be used to rebuild complete heavy and light chain minigenes. Such plasmids can be used to express fully human or chimerized IgG1, kappa or IgG4, kappa antibodies. Similar plasmids can be constructed for expressing other heavy chain isotypes or antibodies comprising lambda light chains.

Thus, in another aspect of the invention, the structural properties of the anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention include structurally related humanized anti-CLDN6 antibodies that retain at least one functional characteristic of the antibodies of the invention, including binding to CLDN6. Used to create them. More specifically, one or more CDR regions of mouse monoclonal antibodies are known human framework regions and CDRs for generating additional, recombinantly-engineered, humanized anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention. It can be recombinantly bound to.

Binding to antigen expressing cells

The ability of an antibody to bind to CLDN6 can be measured using standard binding assays, including those disclosed in the examples (eg, ELISA, Western blot, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analysis).

Isolation and characterization of antibodies

To purify anti-CLDN6 antibodies, selected hybridomas can be grown in a 2-liter spinner-flask for monoclonal antibody purification. Alternatively, anti-CLDN6 antibodies can be produced in dialysis based on bioreactors. The supernatant can be filtered and, if necessary, concentrated before affinity chromatography with Protein G-Sepharose or Protein A-Sepharose. Dissolved and isolated IgG can be checked by high performance liquid chromatography to ensure gel electrophoresis and purity. The buffer solution can be replaced with PBS, and the concentration is measured by OD280 using 1.43 extinction coefficient. Monoclonal antibodies are aliquoted and can be stored at -80°C.

If the selected anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies bind to a unique epitope, site-directed or multi-site directed mutagenesis can be used.

Isotype determination

To identify the isotypes of purified antibodies, various kits of isotype ELISA (eg, Zymed, Roche Diagnostics) were performed. The wells of the micro titer can be coated with anti-mouse Ig. After blocking, the plate was reacted with monoclonal antibodies or purified isotype controls at ambient temperature for 2 hours. Then the wells can be reacted with mouse IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b or IgG3, IgA or mouse IgM-specific peroxidase-conjugated probes. After washing, the plates were developed with ABTS substrate (1 mg/ml) and can be analyzed with 405-650 OD. Alternatively, an isostrip mouse monoclonal antibody isotyping kit (Roche, Cat. No. 1493027) can be used as described by the manufacturer.

Flow cytometric analysis

To demonstrate the presence of anti-CLDN6 antibodies in the serum of immunized mice or binding of monoclonal antibodies to living cells expressing CLDN6, flow cytometry was used. Cell lines expressing CLDN6 after natural or transfection and negative controls lacking CLDN6 expression (overgrown under standard growth conditions) can be mixed at various concentrations of hybridoma supernatants or monoclonal antibodies in PBS containing 1% FBS. And can be incubated at 4° C. for 30 minutes. After washing, APC- or Alexa647-labeled anti-IgG antibodies can bind to CLDN6-bound monoclonal antibodies under conditions such as initial antibody staining. Samples can be analyzed by flow cytometry with a FACS instrument using light and side scatter properties to gate single, living cells. To distinguish CLDN6-specific monoclonal antibodies from non-specific binders in a single measurement, a co-transfection method can be implemented. Cells transiently transfected with plasmids encoding CLDN6 and fluorescent markers can be stained as described above. Transfected cells can be detected in different fluorescence channels than antibody-stained cells. As many of the transfected cells express all of the transgenes, CLDN6-specific monoclonal antibodies preferentially bind to fluorescent marker expressing cells, while non-specific antibodies have a comparable ratio to non-transfected cells. Combine with. Alternative assays using fluorescence microscopy can be used in addition to or instead of flow cytometry assays. Cells are stained exactly as described above and can be examined by fluorescence microscopy.

Immunofluorescence microscope

Immunofluorescence microscopy can be used to demonstrate the presence of anti-CLDN6 antibodies in the serum of immunized mice or the binding of CLDN6 to living cells expressing monoclonal antibodies. For example, a cell line expressing CLDN6 spontaneously or after transfection or a negative control lacking CLDN6 expression is supplemented with 10% FCS, 2 mM L-glutamine, 100 IU/ml penicillin, and 100 μg/ml streptomycin supplemented with DMEM/ Incubate on chamber slides under standard growth conditions in F12 medium. Cells are then fixed or untreated with methanol or paraformaldehyde. Then it reacts with the monoclonal antibody against CLDN6 at 25°C for 30 minutes. After washing, these cells react with the Alexa555 labeled anti-mouse IgG secondary antibody (Molecular Probes) under the same conditions. Then, it can be irradiated with a fluorescence microscope.

Total CLDN6 levels in cells can be observed when cells are fixed with methanol or paraformaldehyde or permeated with Triton X-100. Surface localization of CLDN6 can be observed in living cells and non-permeable, paraformaldehyde-immobilized cells. In addition, targeting of CLDN6 to tight junctions can be analyzed by co-staining with dense seam markers such as ZO-1. In addition, the effect of antibody binding and CLDN6 localization in the cell membrane can be investigated.

Western Blot

For reactivity with CLDN6 antigen, anti-CLDN6 IgG can be further tested by Western blotting. Briefly, cell extracts from cells expressing CLDN6 or appropriate negative controls can be prepared and subjected to SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. After electrophoresis, the isolated antigen is transferred to the nitrocellulose membrane, blocked, and examined with the monoclonal antibody to be tested. IgG binding is detected using anti-mouse IgG peroxidase and developed with the ECL substrate.

Immunohistochemistry

Anti-CLDN6 mouse IgGs are mice with xenograft tumors inoculated with a cell line expressing CLDN6 by immunohistochemistry in a manner well known to those skilled in the art, such as from a patient in the course of surgery, or spontaneously or after transfection. Reactivity to CLDN6 antigen is additionally measured by using paraformaldehyde or acetone-immobilized cryosections, or tissue sections containing paraffin and immobilized with paraformaldehyde from cancer-free tissue or cancer tissue samples obtained from can do. For immunostaining, antibodies reactive to CLDN6 can be incubated and then goat anti-mouse or goat anti-rabbit antibodies (DAKO) and horseradish-peroxy as directed by the seller It is multi-conjugated.

In vitro antibody phagocytic and cell killing action

In addition to specific binding to CLDN6, anti-CLDN6 antibodies can be tested to measure the ability to mediate phagocytosis and killing of cells that express CLDN6 and that CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface. have. Measurement of monoclonal antibody activity in vitro will provide initial screening prior to in vivo model testing.

Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC):

Briefly, polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs), NK cells, monosites, mononuclear cells, or other effector cells from healthy donors can be purified by Ficoll Hipark density centrifugation after lysis of contaminated red blood cells. Washed effector cells were suspended in RPMI supplemented with 10% heat-inactivated FCS or instead 5% heat-inactivated human serum at a ratio of various effector cells to target cells and expressed CLDN6 and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. It is mixed with target cells labeled with ⁵¹ Cr. Alternatively, target cells may be labeled with fluorescence (BATDA) enhancing ligands. Europium's solid fluorescent chelates with enhancing ligands from dead cells can be measured by a fluorimeter. Another alternative technique is to utilize transfection of target cells with luciferase. The added lucifer yellow may then be oxidized only by viable cells. Purified anti-CLDN6 IgGs can then be added at various concentrations. Inadequate human IgG can be used as a negative control. Assays are shifted at 37° C. for as little as 4 hours and as much as 20 hours depending on the effector cell type used. Samples are assayed for cell lysis by measuring the ⁵¹ Cr excretion of the culture supernatant or the presence of EuTDA chelate compound. Alternatively, luminescence by oxidation of Lucifer Yellow is a measure of viable cells.

Anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies can also be tested in various combinations to determine if cytolysis increases with multiple monoclonal antibodies.

Complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC)

The CDC mediated ability of monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies can be tested through a variety of known techniques. For example, serum for complement can be obtained from blood according to methods known to those skilled in the art. Different methods are used to measure the CDC action of mAbs. For example, ⁵¹ Cr emissions can be measured or elevated cell membrane osmoticity can be measured using a PI exclusion assay. Briefly, the target cells can be washed to incubate 5 x 10 ⁵ /ml with various concentrations of mAb for 10-30 minutes at room temperature of about 37°C. Then, serum or plasma is added until the final concentration is 20% (v/v), and the cells are placed at 37°C for 20-30 minutes. All cells from each sample are added to the PI solution in the FACS tube. This mixture can be analyzed immediately via flow cytometry using a FACS array.

In other assays, CDC induction is determined by adherent cells. In one embodiment of this assay, cells are seeded 24 hours before assay in a tissue culture flat bottom microtiter plate at a density of 3 x 10 ⁴ /well. The next day the growth medium is removed and these cells are incubated in triplicates with antibodies. Control cells are incubated with growth medium or growth medium containing 0.2% saponin, respectively, for determination of background lysis or maximal lysis. After incubation at room temperature for 20 minutes, the supernatant is removed and 20% (v/v) human plasma or serum in DMEM (preheated at 37° C.) is added to the cells and incubated again at 37° C. for 20 minutes. All cells from each sample are added to propidium iodide solution (10 μg/ml). Then, the supernatant was replaced with PBS containing 2.5 μg/ml ethidium bromide, and fluorescence emission by excitation at 520 nm was measured at 600 nm using Tecan Safire. The percentage specific lysis is calculated as follows:% specific lysis = (fluorescence sample-fluorescence background)/ (fluorescence maximum lysis-fluorescence background) x 100

Inhibition of cell proliferation by monoclonal antibodies:

To test the ability to initiate apoptosis, for example, monoclonal anti CLDN6 can be incubated with CLDN6 positive tumor cells, or CLDN6 infected tumor cells at 37° C. for about 20 hours. These cells are harvested and then washed in Annexin-V binding buffer (BD Life Sciences) and incubated in the dark for 15 minutes with Annexin V conjugated with FITC or APC (BD Life Sciences). All cells from each sample are added to a PI solution (10 μg/ml in PBS) in a FACS tube and immediately evaluated by flow cytometry (as mentioned above). Instead, the general inhibition of cell proliferation by monoclonal antibodies can be detected with a commercial kit. DELFIA Cell Proliferation Kit (Perkin-Elmer, Cat. No. AD0200) is a non-isotopic immunity based on 5-bromo-2'-dioxyuridine (BrdU) mixing measurements during DNA synthesis of proliferating cells in a microplate. It is an assay. Mixed BrdU is detected using europium labeled monoclonal antibodies. To allow antibody detection, cells are fixed and DNA denatured using Fix solution. The unbound antibody is washed off and the DELFIA inducer is added to the solution to separate the europium ions from the labeled antibody. In this solution, they form a high fluorescence chelate compound with components of the DELFIA inducer. The measured fluorescence-utilizing time-resolved fluorometry at detection-is proportional to DNA synthesis in the cells of each well.

Preclinical research

In regulating the growth of CLDN6 expressing tumor cells, in order to measure its efficacy, monoclonal antibodies that bind to CLDN6 are also injected with in vivo models (e.g., cell lines likely to express CLDN6, or cell lines after infection) (In immunodeficient mice with xenograft tumors).

In vivo studies after injection of CLDN6 expressing positive cells into an immunocompromised mouse or other animal can be performed using the antibodies of the invention. To measure the effect of an antibody to prevent tumor formation or tumor-related symptoms, antibodies can be administered to tumor-free mice and tumor cells can be administered. Antibodies can be administered to tumor-bearing mice to measure the therapeutic efficacy of each antibody to reduce tumor growth, metastasis or tumor-related symptoms. Antibody applications can measure the synergistic effect or potential toxicity of combinations of other substances with other antibodies, such as cytostatic drugs, growth factor inhibitors, cell cycle blockers, and angiogenesis inhibitors. To analyze the toxic side effects caused by the antibodies of the present invention, animals can be injected with antibodies or control reagents and closely investigated for symptoms that may be associated with CLDN6 antibody treatment. A possible side effect of the in vivo application of CLDN6 antibodies is toxicity in CLDN6 expressing tissues including the placenta. Antibodies that recognize CLDN6 in humans or other species such as rats are particularly useful in preventing potential side effects caused by the application of monoclonal CLDN6 antibodies in humans.

Epitope mapping

The epitope mapping recognized by the antibody of the present invention is described in "Epitope Mapping Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology) by Glenn E. Morris ISBN-089603-375-9 and in'Epitope Mapping: A Practical Approach" Practical Approach Series, 248 by Olwyn MR Westwood, Frank C. Hay.

I. Bispecific/multispecific molecules that bind to CLDN6

In another embodiment of the invention, the antibody against CLDN6 is derived or linked to another functional molecule, for example another peptide or protein (eg Fab' fragment) to bind multiple binding sites or target epitopes. Bispecific or multispecific molecules can be generated. For example, the antibody of the invention can be functionally linked to another or multiple binding molecules, such as another antibody, peptide, or binding mimetic (chemical binding, genetic fusion, non-covalent binding or other) By method).

Accordingly, the present invention includes bispecific, multispecific molecules with at least one primary binding specificity for CLDN6 and secondary binding specificity for the secondary target epitope. In certain embodiments of the invention, the secondary target epitope is, for example, an Fc receptor such as human Fc-gamma RI (CD64) or human Fc-alpha receptor (CD89), or a T cell receptor such as CD3. Therefore, the present invention can bind to Fc-gamma R, Fc-alpha R or FC-epsilon R expressing effector cells (e.g., monosite, macrophagesors, or polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs)). It includes bispecific and multispecific molecules that are capable of expressing CLDN6 and binding to target cells, which are characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. These bispecific, multispecific molecules express CLDN6 and target cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface, or target cells that express CLDN6 or express CLDN6 and attach CLDN6 to the cell surface. It may also cause effector cell action mediated by Fc receptors such as phagocytosis, antibody dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC), cytokine excretion, or production of superoxide anions.

The bispecific and multispecific molecules of the invention may also include tertiary binding specificity in addition to anti-Fc binding specificity and anti-CLDN6 binding specificity. In one embodiment, tertiary binding specificity is a molecule that increases the immune response to a target cell by binding to an anti-enhancement factor (EF) moiety, such as a surface protein involved in cytotoxic action. The "anti-enhancement factor portion" may be an antibody or functional antibody fragment, or a ligand that results in enhancing the effect of a binding determinant on an Fc receptor or target cell antigen by binding to a specific molecule such as an antigen or receptor. . The “anti-enhancement factor portion” can bind an Fc receptor or target cell antigen. Instead, the anti-enhancement factor moiety can bind to an entity different from the entity to which the primary and secondary binding specificities bind. For example, the anti-enhancement factor portion binds cytotoxic T cells (eg, immune cells that increase the immune response to target cells, such as CD2, CD3, CD8, CD28, CD4, CD40, ICAM-1). can do.

In one embodiment, the bispecific, multispecific molecules of the invention include at least one antibody as binding specificity, e.g. Fab, Fab', F(ab') ₂ , Fv, or single chain Fv, etc. do. The antibody may also be a light chain or heavy chain dimer, or a minor fragment thereof, such as a single chain construct as depicted in Fv or Ladner et al., US 4,946,778. The antibody may also be a binding domain immunoglobulin antibody fusion protein as described in US2003/0118592 and US 2003/0133939.

In one embodiment, the bispecific and multispecific molecules of the present invention are characterized by binding specificity to Fc-gammaR or Fc-alphaR present on the surface of effector cells and binding specificity to target cell antigens such as CLDN6. Includes.

In one embodiment, the binding specificity for the Fc receptor is produced by a monoclonal antibody, and binding of the monoclonal antibody is not inhibited by the immunoglobulin antibody G (IgG). As used herein, “IgG receptor” refers to one of the 8 gamma-chain genes located on chromosome 1. These genes encode a total of 12 transmembrane or soluble receptor isoforms divided into three Fc-gamma receptor classes: Fc-gammaRI (CD64), Fc-gammaRII (CD32), and Fc-gammaRIII (CD16). do. In one preferred embodiment, the Fc-gamma receptor is human high affinity Fc-gamma RI.

In another preferred embodiment, binding specificity for the Fc receptor is provided by antibodies that bind to the human IgA receptor, such as the Fc-alpha receptor (Fc-alphaRI (CD89)). The binding of this human IgA receptor is rather not blocked by human immunoglobulin antibody A (IgA). The term "IgA receptor" is intended to include genetic material of the alpha-gene (Fc-alphaRI) located on chromosome 19. This gene is known to alternatively encode several spliced transmembrane isoforms from 55 to 110 kDa. Fc-alpha RI (CD89) is structurally expressed in monosite/macrophages (macrophages), eosinophilic and neutrophil granulocytes, but not in non-effector cell populations. Fc-alphaRI has a moderate affinity for both IgA1 and IgA2, which may be exposed to cytokines such as G-CSF or GM-CSF (Morton, HC et al. (1996) Critical Reviews in Immunology 16: 423-440). Case increases. Four Fc-alphaRI specific monoclonal antibodies, A3, A59, A62, and A77, bind Fc-alphaRI outside the IgA ligand binding domain and have been described (Monteiro, RC et al. (1992) J .Immunol. 148: 1764).

In another embodiment, the bispecific molecule is composed of two monoclonal antibodies according to the present invention comprising complementary functional activity, i.e., antibodies that act primarily by CDC induction and antibodies that act primarily by inducing apoptosis. .

As used herein, "effector cell specific antibody" refers to an antibody or functional antibody fragment that binds the Fc receptor of an effector cell. Antibodies preferred for use in the present invention bind the effector cell Fc receptors at sites that are not bound by endogenous immunoglobulin antibodies.

“Effector cells” as used herein refers to immune cells involved in the effector phase of the immune response as opposed to the cognitive and activation phases of the immune response. Representative immune cells are bone marrow or lymphocyte-derived cells, e.g., B cells and T cells, including lymphocyte cells (e.g., cytolytic T cells (CTLs), killer cells, NK cells, macrophages, monosites, eosinophilic cells) (eosinophils), neutrophils, polymorphonuclear cells, granular cells, mast cells, basophils. Some effector cells express specific Fc receptors and perform specific immune functions. In a preferred embodiment, effector cells, such as neutrophil cells capable of inducing ADCC, can induce ADCC. For example, monosites, macrophages expressing FcR, are involved in specific killing of target cells, and are involved in displaying antigens to other components of the immune system or binding to cells that display antigens. In other embodiments, the effector cells can phagocytose target antigens, target cells, or microorganisms. The expression of a specific FcR on effector cells is controlled by a humoral factor such as a cytokine. For example, it has been found that the expression of Fc-gamma RI is up-regulated by interferon gamma (IFN-γ). This enhanced expression increases phagocytosis of the cells containing Fc-gamma RI against the target. Effector cells can phagocytose or isolate target antigens or target cells.

“Target cell” means any undesirable cell of a subject (eg human or animal) that can be the target of an antibody of the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the target cell is a cell characterized by expressing or overexpressing CLDN6 and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. Cells that express CLDN6 and are characterized by CLDN6 being attached to the cell surface typically include tumor cells.

II. Immunoconjugates

In another aspect, the invention features an anti-CLDN6 antibody conjugated to a therapeutic moiety or agent, such as a cytotoxin, drug (eg, immunosuppressant), or radioactive isotope. Such binding refers to “immunoconjugates” herein. An immunoconjugate comprising one or more cytotoxins refers to an “immunotoxin”. Cytotoxins or cytotoxic agents include all agents that are harmful to cells or specifically kill cells. Examples include taxol, cytochalasin B, gramidisin D, ititium bromide, emetine, mitomycin, etoposide, tenofoside, vincristine, vin Blastin, colchicine, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, dihydroxy anthracin dione, mitoxantrone, mitramycin, actinomycin D, 1-dihydroxytestosterone, glucocorticoid, pro Cain, tetracaine, lidocaine, propranolol, and puromycin and their analogues or analogs.

Suitable therapeutic agents for forming the immunoconjugates of the invention are, but are not limited to, anti-metabolites (e.g., methotrexate, 6-mercaptopurine, 6-thioguanine, cytarabine, Fludarabine, 5-fluorouracil decarbazine), alkylating agents (e.g. mecroletamine, thioepa, chlorambucil, melphalan, carmustine (BSNU), and lomustine (CCNU), cyclophos) Famid, busulfan, dibromomannitol, streptozotocin, mitomycin C and cis-dichlorodiamine platinum (II) (DDP) cisplatin), anthracyclines (such as daunorubicin (formerly daunomycin) ) And doxorubicin), antibiotics (such as dactinomycin (formerly actinomycin), bleomycin, mitramycin and anthramycin (AMC), and anti-mitotic agents (such as vincristine and vinblastine)) In one preferred embodiment, the therapeutic agent is a cytotoxic agent or radiotoxic agent In another embodiment, the therapeutic agent is an immunosuppressive agent In another embodiment, the therapeutic agent is GM-CSF. Therapeutic agents are doxorubicin, cisplatin, bleomycin, sulfate, carmustine, chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide or lysine A.

Antibodies of the invention can also produce cytotoxic radiopharmaceuticals by binding to radioactive isotopes such as iodine-131, yttrium-90, and indium-111 to treat diseases associated with CLDN6, such as cancer. The antibody binding agents of the invention can be used to modify the biological response in question, and this drug moiety is not to be construed as being limited to traditional chemotherapeutic agents. For example, the drug moiety can be a protein or a polypeptide that inhibits a desired biological action. Such proteins include, for example, enzymatically active toxicity, or its active fragments, abrin, lysine A, pseudomonas exotoxin, diphtheria toxicity; Proteins such as necrosis factor or interferon-γ; Or, for example, lymphokines, interleukins-1 (“IL-1”), interleukins-2 (“IL-2”), interleukins-6 (“IL-6”), granular macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-) CSF), granular colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), or other growth factors.

Techniques for binding such therapeutic agents to antibodies are well known, see, e.g., Arnon et al., "Monoclonal Antibodies For Immunotargeting Of Drugs In Cancer Therapy", in Monoclonal Antibodies and Cancer Therapy, Reisfeld et al ( eds.), pp. 243-56 (Alan R. Liss, Inc. 1985); Hellstrom et al., "Antibodies For Drug Delivery", in Controlled Drug Delivery (2nd Ed.), Robinson et al. (eds.) , pp. 623-53 (Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1987); Thorpe, "Antibody Carriers Of Cytotoxic Agents In Cancer Therapy: A Review", in Monoclonal Antibodies '84: Biological and Clinical Applications, Pincheraet al. (eds.), pp. 475-506 (1985); "Analysis, Results, and Future Prospective Of The Therapeutic Use Of Radiolabeled Antibody In Cancer Therapy", in Monoclonal Antibodies For Cancer Detection and Therapy, Baldwin et al. (eds.), pp. 303 -16 (Academic Press 1985), and Thorpe et al., "The Preparation and Cytotoxic Properties Of Antibody-Toxin Conjugates", Immunol. Rev., 62: 119-58 (1982).

In a further embodiment, the antibodies according to the invention are linked to a linker-chelating agent, for example a substance that allows the antibody to bind radioactive isotopes, such as tiuxetan.

III. Pharmaceutical composition

In another aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprising an antibody of the present invention or a combination of antibodies, for example a pharmaceutical composition. Such pharmaceutical compositions are prepared using Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 19th Edition, Gennaro, Ed., Mack Publishing Co., Easton, PA, 1995 using pharmaceutically acceptable mediators or diluents and other known adjuvants and excipients. It can be prepared according to the conventional techniques disclosed. In one embodiment, the composition comprises a combination of multiple (e.g., two or more) independent antibodies of the invention, which act primarily by apoptosis induction, e.g., one antibody that acts primarily by CDC induction. Acts according to different mechanisms, such as binding to other antibodies.

The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention can also be administered in a combination treatment, for example in combination with other agents. For example, a combination treatment may include a composition of the present invention and at least one anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive agent. In one embodiment, such therapeutic agents include one or more anti-inflammatory agents, such as steroid drugs or NSAIDs. Preferred agonists are, for example, aspirin and other salicylates, Cox-2 inhibitors such as Ropexoxib (Vioxx) and Celecoxib (Celebrex), NSAIDs such as Motrin, Advil, Phenopropene (Nalfon) , Naprosyn, Sulinod, Diclofenac, Feldene, Ketoprofen, Diflunisal, Nabumetone (Relafen), Etodolac (Lodine), Cox-2 inhibitors including Daypro, and Indomesacin (Indocin).

In another embodiment, such therapeutic agents are due to depletion or functional inactivation of regulatory T cells, such as low doses of cyclophosphamide, anti-CTLA4 antibodies, anti-IL2, or anti-IL2-receptor antibodies, etc. Containing agents that follow.

However, in another embodiment, such therapeutic agents are taxol derivatives, taxotere, gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin (Adriamycin), cisplatin (Platinol), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Procytox, Neosar). One or more chemotherapy regimens. In another embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be administered in combination with chemotherapeutic agents, which show good therapeutic efficacy in cancer patients of the kind described herein.

In another embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be administered in combination with radiotherapy and/or autologous peripheral stem cell or bone marrow transplantation.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” as used herein includes all solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antibacterial agents, isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and physiologically compatible analogs. Preferably, the media is suitable for intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, parenteral, spinal cord, and epithelial administration (eg by injection or infusion). Depending on the method of administration, the active compound, such as an antibody, bispecific or multispecific molecule, may be coated to protect the compound from acids or other natural conditions that may degrade the action of the compound.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to any undesirable toxin effect (eg, Berge, SM, et al. (1977) J. Pharm. Sci. 66: 1 while maintaining the desired biological activity of the parent compound) -19).

Examples of such salts include acid addition salts and base addition salts. Acid addition salts include non-toxic minerals such as hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrobromic acid, hydroiodic acid, phosphorous acid, and other analogs, as well as fatty monocarboxylic and dicarboxylic acids, phenyl substituted alkanoic acids, hydroxyl groups Salts derived from canoic acid, aromatic acids, fatty and aromatic sulfonic acids and the like. Base addition salts include those derived from alkaline earth metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and other analogs, as well as N,N'-dibenzylethylenediamine, N-methylglucamine, chloroprocaine, choline, di Also included are those derived from non-toxic organic amines, including ethanolamine, ethylenediamine, procaine and the like.

The composition of the present invention can be administered by various methods known in the art. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the method and mode of administration will vary depending on the desired result. The active compound can be prepared with a carrier that will protect the compound from rapid release, such as an inhibitory release aid including infusion, transdermal patch, microcapsule delivery systems, and the like. Biodegradable, biocompatible polymers, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyanhydride, polyglycolic acid, collagen, polyisoester, polylactic acid can be used. Methods for the preparation of such formulations are generally known in the art. See e.g., Sustained and Controlled Release Drug Delivery Systems, J.R.Robinson, ed., Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, 1978.

In order to administer the compound of the present invention by a specific mode of administration, it is necessary to coat the compound with another material or to administer it together with other materials to prevent inactivation. For example, the compound should be administered in a suitable carrier such as a liposome or diluent. Pharmaceutically acceptable diluents include saline or aqueous buffer solutions. Liposomes include water-in-oil-in-water CGF emulsions and traditional liposomes (Strejan et al. (1984) J. Neuroimmunol. 7: 27).

Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include sterile aqueous solvents or dispersions and sterile powders for the temporary dispensing of sterile administrable solvents or dispersions. It is known in the art to use such mediators or agents as pharmaceutically active substances. However, as long as all traditional media or agents are incompatible with the active compound, such use in pharmaceutical compounds in the present invention is contemplated. Supplementary active compounds can also be incorporated into such methods.

Therapeutic compositions typically must be sterile and stable under conditions of manufacture or storage. The composition can be prepared as a solution, microemulsion, liposome, or other customized structure suitable for high drug concentration. The carrier may be, for example, a solvent or a dispersion medium including water, ethanol, polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, liquid polyethylene glycol, and the like) and the like, and a suitable compound thereof. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by using a coating such as lecithin or by maintaining the required particle size in the case of dispersion, or by using a surfactant. In many cases, it will be preferred to include isotonic agents such as, for example, sugar, mannitol, sorbitol, or sodium chloride polyalcohols in the compound. Delayed absorption of the injectable composition is possible by including in the composition an agent that delays absorption, such as a monostearate salt or gelatin.

Sterile injectable solutions can be prepared by mixing the active compound in the required amount in a suitable solvent consisting of one or a combination of ingredients enumerated above, followed by sterile microfiltration.

In general, dispersions can be made by mixing the active compound with a sterile vehicle containing a basic dispersion medium and other necessary ingredients enumerated above. In the case of sterile powders for the preparation of sterile injectable solvents, the preferred method is vacuum drying or freeze drying to produce powders of the active ingredient in addition to any additional desired constituents from the previously sterile filtered solvent.

Dosing regimens are adjusted to provide the optimal desired response (eg, therapeutic response). For example, one large pill may be administered, multiple doses may be administered over time, or the dose may be reduced or increased proportionately depending on the urgency of the treatment situation. It is particularly advantageous to prepare the dosage form unit as a parenteral drug for ease of administration and uniformity of dosage. Dosage unit dosage forms herein refer to physically discrete units suitable for a single dosage for the treatment of a subject, each unit being a predetermined amount of active drug calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect in association with the required pharmaceutical carrier. It includes.

Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable antioxidants include: (1) water soluble antioxidants including ascorbic acid, cysteine hydrochloride, sodium bisulfate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite and the like; (2) oily antioxidants including ascorbyl palmitate, butyl hydroxyanisole (BHA), butyl hydroxytoluene (BHT), lecithin, propyl galat, alpha-tocopherol, and the like; (3) Metal chelating agents, including citric acid, ethylendiamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), sorbitol, tartaric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like.

For therapeutic compositions, formulations of the invention include oral, nasal, topical (including cheek or sublingual), rectal, vaginal, and/or parenteral administration. Formulations can conveniently be presented in unit dosage form and can be prepared by methods known in the pharmaceutical arts. The amount of active ingredient that can be combined with a carrier material to produce a single dosage form will vary depending on the subject being treated and the particular mode of administration. A significant amount of active ingredient that can be combined with a carrier material to produce a single dosage form will generally be the amount of a composition that produces a therapeutic effect.

Formulations of the invention suitable for vaginal administration also include pessaries, tampons, creams, gels, pastes, foams, or spray formulations comprising carriers known to be suitable in the art. Dosage forms for topical or transdermal administration of the present invention include powders, sprays, ointments, pastes, creams, lotions, gels, solutions, patches and inhalants. The active compound can be mixed under sterile conditions with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and any preservatives, buffers, or propellants required.

The phrases “parenteral administration” and “parenterally administered” as used herein generally refer to modes of administration other than intestinal and topical administration by injection, without limitation, intravenous, intramuscular. Intra-arterial, intrathecal, intracapsular, intraorbital, intracardiac, intradermal, intraperitoneal, transtracheal, subcutaneous, subcuticular , Intra-articular, subcapsular, subarrachnoid, intraspinal, epidural and intrasternal injections and infusions.

Examples of suitable aqueous and non-aqueous carriers that may be embodied in the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention include water, ethanol, polyols (such as glycerol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, and similar species), and suitable mixtures thereof, olive oil. Vegetable oils, and injectable organic esters, including ethyl oleate. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of coating materials, including lecithin, by maintaining the particle size required in the case of dispersion, and by using surfactants.

These compositions may also include adjuvants, including preservatives, wetting agents, emulsifying agents, and dispersing agents. Prevention of the presence of microorganisms can be ensured by the sterilization process and by the inclusion of various antibacterial and antifungal agents such as parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol sorbic acid, and similar species. Additionally, prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form can occur by mixing agents that delay absorption, including aluminum monostearate and gelatin.

Without taking into account the route of administration chosen, the compounds of the invention can be used in appropriately hydrated forms and/or in pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention, which are in pharmaceutically acceptable dosage form by conventional methods known to those skilled in the art. Can be dispensed.

The actual dosage level of the active ingredient in the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention can be varied to obtain a significant amount of active ingredient effective to achieve the desired therapeutic response of the particular patient, the mode of administration, composition, and composition without toxicity to the patient. The selected dosage level/ is used in combination with the activity of the particular composition of the invention to be implemented, the route of administration, the time of administration, the rate of excretion of the particular compound to be achieved, the duration of treatment, other drugs, compounds, and/or the particular composition to be implemented. The substance to be treated, the age, sex, weight, condition of the patient being treated, general health and previous medical history, and similar factors known in the medical arts will depend on a variety of pharmacokinetic factors.

A doctor or veterinarian with general knowledge in the art can easily determine and prescribe an effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition needed. For example, a physician or veterinarian may start with a dose of a compound of the invention embodied in a pharmaceutical composition at a level lower than that required to achieve the desired therapeutic effect, and administer the dose until the desired effect is achieved. It can be gradually increased. Generally, an appropriate daily dosage of the composition of the present invention will be the amount of the compound that is the lowest effective dose to produce a therapeutic effect. Such effective dosage will generally depend on the factors described above. It is preferred that administration may be intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneously, preferably close to the site of the target. If desired, an effective daily dosage of therapeutic composition may be administered in sub-doses of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more, optionally in unit dosage form, separated at appropriate intervals throughout the day. When it is desired that the compounds of the invention are administered alone, it is preferred to administer the compounds as pharmaceutical formulations (compositions).

In one embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be administered by slow, continuous infusion over a long period of time, such as injection, preferably 24 hours or more, to prevent toxic side effects. Such administration may also be performed by continuous infusion over a period of 2 to 24 hours, including 2 to 12 hours. Such therapy can be repeated one or more times as needed, eg, after 6 or 12 months. The therapy can be determined or modulated by measuring the amount of circulating monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies for administration in a biological sample by using anti-idiotypic antibodies targeting anti-CLDN6 antibodies. have.

In another embodiment, the antibodies are administered by maintenance treatment, such as once a week, for a period of 6 months or longer.

In another embodiment, antibodies according to the invention can be administered by therapy comprising one injection of an antibody against CLDN6, followed by an injection of an antibody against CLDN6 conjugated with a radioisotope. Therapy can be repeated, for example, after 7 to 9 days.

In one embodiment of the invention, the therapeutic compounds of the invention can be formulated in liposomes. In one preferred embodiment, the liposomes include a target moiety. In one most preferred embodiment, therapeutic compounds within the liposomes can be delivered by bolus injection to a desired area, such as a site proximal to the site of the tumor. The composition must be in a fluid state that can be easily injected. It must be stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage and must be preserved against the contaminating action of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi.

In one further embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be prepared to prevent or reduce transport across the placenta. This can be done by methods known in the art, such as by pegation of antibodies or by use of F(ab)2′ fragments.

Additional references include "Cunningham-Rundles C, Zhuo Z, Griffith B, Keenan J. (1992) Biological activities of polyethylene-glycol immunoglobulin conjugates. Resistance to enzymatic degradation. J. Immunol. Methods, 152: 177-190; and to" Landor M. (1995) Maternal-fetal transfer of immunoglobulins, Ann. Allergy Asthma Immunol. 74: 279-283".

“Therapeutically effective dosage” for tumor treatment can be measured by complete or partial target tumor responses. A complete response (CR) is defined as no clinical, radiological or other evidence of disease. The partial response (PR) results in a reduction in total tumor size of 50% or more. The median time for metastasis is a measure characterizing the durability of the target tumor response.

“Therapeutically effective dosage” for tumor treatment can also be measured by its ability to stabilize metastasis of the disease. The ability of compounds to inhibit cancer can be assessed in animal model systems that predict efficacy in human tumors. Alternatively, this characteristic of the composition can be assessed by investigation of the compound's ability to inhibit cell growth or apoptosis by in vitro assays known to those skilled in the art. A therapeutically effective amount of a therapeutic compound may reduce tumor size or otherwise improve symptoms in the subject. Those skilled in the art can determine amounts based on factors including the size of the subject, the severity of the subject's symptoms, and the particular composition or route of administration chosen.

The composition must be sterile and must be fluid to the extent that the composition can be delivered by syringe. In addition to water, the carrier can be isotonic buffered saline, ethanol, polyols (eg, glycerol, propylene glycol, and liquid polyethylene glycol, and similar species), and suitable mixtures thereof. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by using a coating including lecithin, by maintaining the required particle size in the case of dispersion, and by surfactants. In many cases, it is desirable to include isotonic agents, such as polyalcohols, including sugars, mannitol or sorbitol, and sodium chloride in the composition. Long-term absorption of the injectable compositions can occur by including in the composition an agent that delays absorption, such as aluminum monostearate, or gelatin.

As disclosed above, when the active compound is properly protected, the compound can be administered orally, for example, orally, as an inert diluent or an assimilable edible carrier.

IV. Uses and methods of the invention

Antibodies of the invention (including immunoconjugates, bispecific/multispecific, compositions and other analogs described herein) treat diseases associated with cells characterized by CLDN6 and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. It has a large number of therapeutic utilities involved. For example, the antibodies can be administered to cells, for example in vivo or ex vivo, or to human subjects, such as in vivo, to treat or prevent various diseases, including those described herein. Preferred subjects are those that can be repaired or ameliorated by killing diseased cells, particularly those characterized by altered expression patterns of CLDN6 compared to normal cells and/or altered patterns of CLDN6 attachment to the cell surface. This includes human patients.

Examples of oncological diseases in which the antibodies of the invention can be treated and/or prevented are diseases characterized by the presence of tumor cells characterized by, for example, expression of CLDN6 comprising gastric cancer and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface. It can be used to treat subjects with invasive oncological diseases. Tumors described herein and all CLDN6 expressing cancers. These cancers can be early, middle or advanced stages, such as metastasis.

The therapeutic methods and pharmaceutical compositions described according to the invention can also be used for immunization or vaccination to prevent the diseases disclosed herein.

In another embodiment, the antibodies of the invention can be used to detect CLDN6 level or special forms of CLDN6 or the level of cells comprising CLDN6 on its membrane surface, the level so any as described above May be associated with a disease or a sign of a disease. Alternatively, antibodies can be used to interact with or deplete the functions of cells that express CLDN6 and that CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface, thereby linking these cells as important mediators of the disease. This can be accomplished by contacting the anti-CLDN6 antibody with a sample and a control sample under conditions that allow the formation of a complex between the antibody and CLDN6. Any complexes formed between the antibody and CLDN6 are detected and compared in the sample and control samples, ie reference samples.

Antibodies of the invention can be first tested for their binding activity related to therapeutic or diagnostic uses in vitro. For example, antibodies can be tested using flow cytometry assays as described herein.

Antibodies of the invention can be used to elicit one or more of the following biological activities in vivo or in vitro: activity that inhibits growth and/or differentiation of cells characterized by CLDN6 expression and CLDN6 attached to the cell surface; Activity that expresses CLDN6 and kills cells characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface; Activity mediating ADCC or phagocytosis of cells expressing CLD18 in the presence of effector cells; CDC-mediated activity of cells characterized in that CLDN6 is expressed in the presence of complement and CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface; An activity that mediates apoptosis of cells that expresses CLDN6 and is characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface; Activity that induces homotypic attachment; And/or activity that induces translocation to a lipid raft that binds CLDN6.

In one particular embodiment, the antibodies can be used in vivo or in vitro to treat, prevent or diagnose various CLDN6-related diseases. Examples of CLDN6-related diseases include cancers, as described herein, among others.

As described above, the anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention are co-conjugated with one or more therapeutic agents, such as cytotoxic agents, radiotoxic agents, anti-angiogenic agents, or immunosuppressants that reduce the induction of an immune response to the antibodies of the invention Can be administered. Antibodies can be linked to an agent (as an immunocomplex) or administered separately from the agent. In the latter case (separate administration), the antibody can be administered before, after or concurrently with the agent, and can be co-administered with other known therapies such as anti-cancer therapies such as radioactivity. Such therapeutic agents may include anti-neoplastic agents as listed above, among others. Co-administration of anti-CLDN6 antibodies of the invention with chemotherapeutic agents provides two anti-cancer agents that operate through different mechanisms that produce cytotoxic effects on tumor cells. Such co-administration can solve problems caused by the development of drug resistance or changes in the antigenicity of tumor cells that prevent tumor cells from responding to antibodies.

Compositions of the invention (eg, antibodies, multispecific and bispecific molecules and immunoconjugates) with complement binding sites, including portions from IgG1, -2, or -3 or IgM that bind complement, are also complement Can be used in the presence of In one embodiment, ex vivo treatment of a cell population comprising target cells with a binding agent of the invention and suitable effector cells can be supplemented by addition of complement or serum containing complement. Phagocytosis of target cells encoded with the binding agent of the present invention can be improved by binding of complement proteins. In other embodiments, target cells coated with a composition of the invention can be lysed by complement. In another embodiment, the compositions of the present invention do not activate complement.

Compositions of the invention are also administered with complement. Thus, within the scope of the present invention, antibodies, multispecific or bispecific molecules and serum or complement are within that range. These compositions are advantageous in that they are located in close proximity to antibodies, multispecific or bispecific molecules.

Alternatively, the antibodies, multispecific or bispecific molecules of the invention and complements or serum can be administered separately. The binding of the composition of the present invention to target cells can cause translocation of the CLDN6 antigen-antibody complex into the lipid raft of the cell membrane. Such translocation produces high density antigen-antibody complexes that can efficiently activate and/or enhance CDC.

In addition, within the scope of the present invention there are instructions for use and kits (eg, antibodies and immunoconjugates) comprising the antibody composition of the present invention. The kit may further comprise one or more additional reagents, including a cytotoxic or radiotoxic agent, an immunosuppressant, or one or more additional antibodies of the invention (eg, antibodies with complementary activity).

Thus, other therapeutic agents, including cytotoxic agents or radiotoxic agents that enhance or enhance the therapeutic effects of the antibodies of the present invention, are additionally administered to patients treated with the antibody composition of the present invention (before administration of the antibody of the present invention. , At the same time, or after).

In other embodiments, the subject can be further treated with an agent that modulates, e.g., increases or inhibits, e.g., the activity or expression of the Fc-gamma or Fc-alpha receptor, e.g., by treating the subject with a cytokine. Preferred cytokines include granulocyte colony stimulator (G-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Other important agents for increasing the therapeutic efficacy of the antibodies and pharmaceutical compositions disclosed herein are homopolysaccharides of branched glucose residues and produced by various plants and microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, yeast and grains. β-glucan. Fragments of β-glucan produced by organisms can also be used. Preferably, β-glucan is a polymer of β(1,3), at least some backbone glucose units, e.g. 3-6% of skeletal glucose units have branches, including β(1,6) branches have.

In particular embodiments, the present invention provides a method for detecting the presence of a CLDN6 antigen in a sample or measuring the amount of a CLDN6 antigen, under conditions that allow the formation of a complex between the antibody or a portion thereof and CLDN6, CLDN6 And contacting the antibody specifically binding with the sample and the control sample. The formation of the complex is then detected, and the difference in complex formation between the samples compared to the control sample indicates the presence of CLDN6 in the sample.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for quantifying or detecting the presence of a cell characterized in that CLDN6 is expressed in vivo or in vitro and CLDN6 is attached to the cell surface. The method comprises the steps of (i) administering a composition of the invention conjugated to a detectable marker to a subject, and (ii) expressing a region comprising cells expressing CLDN6 and attaching CLDN6 to a cell surface. And exposing the subject to means for detecting the detectable marker.

The methods described above are particularly useful for diagnosing CLDN6-related diseases and/or localization of CLDN6-related diseases, including cancer diseases. Preferably, a significant amount of CLDN6 in the sample, which is higher than a significant amount of CLDN6 in the control sample, indicates the presence of CLDN6-related disease in the subject from which the sample was derived, particularly in humans.

When using the methods described above, the antibodies described herein can be provided with a label that performs the following functions: (i) the ability to provide a detectable signal; (ii) the ability to react with a first or second label, such as a second label to modify a detectable signal provided by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET); (iii) the ability to influence motility by charge, hydrophobicity, shape, or other physical parameters, such as electrophoretic motility, or (iv) the ability to provide capture moieties such as affinity, antibody/antigen or ionic complexes. Suitable labels are fluorescent labels, luminescent labels, chromophore labels, radioactive labels, isotope labels, preferably stable isotope labels, isotope labels, enzyme labels, particle labels, especially metal particle labels, magnetic particle labels, polymer particles Organic small molecules such as labels, biotin, receptor ligands or cell adhesion proteins or binding molecules such as lectins, and label-sequences containing nucleic acid and/or amino acid residues detectable by use of a binding agent. Labels are, in a non-limiting way, barium sulfate, iocetamic acid, iopanoic acid, calcium ipodate, sodium diatrizoate, meth Positron emitters such as meglumine diatrizoate, metrizamide, sodium tyropanate and fluorine-18 and carbon-11, iodine-123, technetium-99m, iodine Gamma emitters such as -131 and indium-111, and radioactive diagnostic agents including nuclides for nuclear magnetic resonance such as fluorine and gadolinium.

In another embodiment, the immune conjugate of the present invention is a compound (eg, pharmaceutical agent, label, cytotoxin, radio) in a cell having CLDN6 bound to its surface by binding such a substance with an antibody. Toxins, immunosuppressive agents, etc.). Accordingly, the present invention also provides a method for localizing cells ex vivo or in vitro that express CLDN6, including circulating tumor cells, and which are characterized by CLDN6 attached to the cell surface.

The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the following examples, which are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Figure 1. Sequence diagram of CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 and CLDN9.
Figure 2. Results of immunofluorescence analysis of serum from mice immunized to produce CLDN6-specific antibodies
(A) Unfixed CHO-K1 cells co-transfected with nucleic acids encoding human CLDN6 and GFP, respectively, were detected using an anti-CLDN6 monoclonal mouse antibody (R&D Systems, MAB3656). Did. CLDN6 is located on the cell membrane of infected cells and can be targeted on living cells by specific antibodies.
(B) Serum from mice that were the basis for producing hybridoma F3-6C3-H8, CLDN6 on the surface of immobilized CHO-K1 cells co-transfected with nucleic acids encoding human CLDN6 and GFP, respectively. Antibodies that bind to.
Figure 3. Western blot analysis for analysis of endogenous expression of claudin protein in HEK293T cells
Transfected with nucleic acids encoding CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6, and CLDN9, respectively, or by imitation Protein lysates of transfected HEK293T cells are commercially available anti-CLDN3(A) (Invitrogen, Cat No. 34-1700), anti-CLDN4(A)(Zymed, 32-9400), anti-CLDN6(A ) (ARP, 01-8865) and anti-CLDN9(A) (Santa Cruz, sc-17672) antibody. The antibodies detected the expression of their corresponding target only in each HEK293T transformant. No endogenous expression of claudin was observed among the non-transfected HEK293T cells.
Degree. 4. Flow cytometry to analyze the specificity of commercially available anti-CLDN antibodies
Binding of commercially available anti-CLDN antibodies to HEK293T cells transfected with or without transfection with nucleic acids encoding CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6, and CLDN9, respectively, was determined by flow cytometry. Only commercially available anti-CLDN3 antibodies are specific for the target.
Figure 5. Flow cytometric analysis for specificity analysis of anti-CLDN antibodies prepared according to the present invention.
Binding of antibodies in supernatant from monoclonal hybridoma subclones to HEK293T cells co-transfected with vectors encoding CLDN6, CLDN3, CLDN4 or CLDN9 and vectors encoding fluorescent markers is measured by flow cytometry. Did.
(A) Antibodies in supernatant derived from monoclonal hybridoma subclonal F3-6C3-H8 specifically bind to CLDN6 transfected cells, but not to cells transfected with CLDN3, CLDN4 and CLDN9 respectively. On the other hand, antibodies in the supernatant derived from the monoclonal hybridoma subclone F4-4F7-F2 bind to cells transfected with CLDN6 or CLDN9. Antibodies in the supernatant from the monoclonal hybridoma subclonal F3-6C3-H8 also bind to cells transfected with the (I143V)-SNP variant of CLDN6.
(B) The antibody in the supernatant derived from the monoclonal hybridoma subclone F3-7B3-B4 binds to cells transfected with CLDN6, CLDN3 or CLDN9. Antibodies in the supernatant derived from the monoclonal hybridoma subclone F3-3F7-A5 bind to cells transfected with CLDN6, CLDN4 or CLDN9.
Figure 6.Binding specificity of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A
Binding of anti-CLDN6 antibodies to human CLDN6, 3, 4, 9 and CLDN6 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variant I143V was analyzed by flow cytometry using HEK293T cells transiently expressing the corresponding human claudin. HEK293T was co-transfected with a fluorescent marker to differentiate between untransfected cells (Q1 and Q3 clusters) and transfected cells (Q2 and Q4 clusters). The antibody concentration used was that which saturates the binding to CLDN6 (25 μg/ml). Human CLDN6, 3 using commercially available monoclonal antibodies against human claudin-6 (R&D Systems, MAB3656), human claudin-3 (R&D Systems, MAB4620) and human claudin-4 (R&D Systems, MAB 4219) , 4, 9 and CLDN6-SNP (I143V) expression was confirmed.
Figure 7. Relative affinity of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A.
To determine relative affinity, binding of anti-CLDN6 antibody to human CLDN6 stably expressed on the surface of HEK293 cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. In the saturation binding experiment, the concentration of the antibody was expressed against the FACS signal (median of fluorescence intensity). The EC50 (concentration of antibody binding to half of the binding site in equilibrium) was calculated by nonlinear regression. CLDN6-specific antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 200-500 ng/ml) and saturation binding was achieved at low concentrations.
Figure 8. Complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) activity of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A.
The CDC activity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody was analyzed using a luciferase dependent assay that probes endogenous ATP in unexploded cells. Therefore, CHO-K1 cells stably expressing human CLDN6 were treated with different concentrations of muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A. MuMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A exhibited positive CDC activity and induced CDC at low concentrations.
Figure 9. Complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 65A and 66B on endogenously CLDN6 expressing NEC8 cells and NEC8 LVTS2 54 (CLDN6 knockdown) cells.
The anti-CLDN6 antibodies muMAB 65A and 66B induced CDC in a sheep-dependent manner on NEC8 cells. Target specificity of muMAB 65A and 66B was demonstrated by the use of NEC8 LVTS2 54 cells (CLDN6 knockdown).
Figure 10.Pharmaceutical effects of muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A in an initial treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
NEC8 xenograft expressing CLDN6 endogenously in athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice was used as a model. Compared with the saline control group, muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed tumor growth inhibition in mice implanted with NEC8 cells.
Figure 11.Binding specificity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A
The binding of anti-CLDN6 antibodies to human CLDN6, 3, 4 and 9, respectively, was analyzed by flow cytometry using HEK293 cells stably expressing the corresponding human claudin. The antibody concentration used was the concentration to saturate the binding (25 μg/ml). Humans using commercially available monoclonal antibodies to human cloudin-3 (R&D Systems, MAB4620) and human cloudin-4 (R&D Systems, MAB 4219) and CLDN6/9-reactive murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 5F2D2 respectively Expression of CLDN3, 4, 6 and 9 was confirmed. The negative control was performed under the same conditions without primary antibody.
12. Relative affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A to HEK293-CLDN6 cells
To determine relative affinity, anti-CLDN6 antibody binding to human CLDN6 stably expressed on the surface of HEK293 cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. In the saturation binding experiment, the concentration of the antibody was indicated for the FACS signal (median value of fluorescence intensity). EC50 (concentration of antibody binding to half of the binding site in equilibrium) was calculated using nonlinear regression. CLDN6-specific antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 450-600 ng/ml) and saturation of binding was achieved at low concentrations. ChimAB 67A and 61D showed low EC50 values (EC50 1000 ng/ml) and median EC50 values (EC50 2300 ng/ml), respectively.
Figure 13. Relative affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A to NEC8 cells.
To determine the relative affinity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody to tumor cells endogenously expressing human CLDN6, binding to the testicular cancer cell line NEC8 was analyzed using flow cytometry. CLDN6-specific antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 600-650 ng/ml) and saturation binding was achieved at low concentration, where chimAB 61D and 67A each had an intermediate EC50 value (EC50 1700 ng) /ml) and high EC50 values (EC50 6100 ng/ml).
Figure 14. Relative affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A for OV90 cells
To determine the binding affinity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody to tumor cells expressing human CLDN6 endogenously, binding to the ovarian cancer cell line OV90 was analyzed by flow cytometry. CLDN6-specific antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 550-600 ng/ml) and saturation binding was achieved at low concentrations. ChimAB 61D and 67A showed intermediate EC50 values (EC50 1500 ng/ml and EC50 2300 ng/ml, respectively).
Figure 15. Complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A against NEC8 wild type and NEC8 knockdown cells.
The CDC activity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody was analyzed using a luciferase dependent assay that detects endogenous ATP in non-lyzed cells. Therefore, NEC8 wild-type cells (NEC8 LVTS2 77) ectopically expressing luciferase were treated with different concentrations of chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A. For NEC-8 cells, chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A, and 89A showed CDC activity in a sheep-dependent manner, whereas for NEC-8 CLDN6 knockdown cells (NEC8 LVTS2 54), none of these antibodies were able to inhibit nonspecific cell lysis. Did not induce. These results showed target specific effector functions of chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A.
Figure 16. Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A against NEC8 wild type and NEC8 knockdown cells.
ADCC activity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody was analyzed using a luciferase dependent assay that measures endogenous ATP in undissolved cells. Therefore, NEC-8 wild type cells (NEC8 LVTS2 77) were treated with different concentrations of chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A. ChimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A showed ADCC activity in a positively dependent manner, and even induced ADCC at low antibody concentrations. To demonstrate target specificity, NEC8 cells (NEC8 LVTS2 54) stably knocked down CLDN6 were used.
17. Long-term pharmaceutical effects of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 64A and 67A in an initial treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
Athymic nude- NEC8 xenografts endogenously expressing CLDN6 among Foxn1 ^nu mice were used as a model. Mice were treated with CLDN6 specific antibody for 46 days. After treatment, tumor growth was observed for 60 days. Even after stopping the immunotherapy, mice treated with the murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 64A and 67A showed no tumor growth.
FIG. 18.Pharmaceutical effect of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 89A in an initial treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
Athymic nude- NEC8 xenografts endogenously expressing CLDN6 in Foxn1 ^nu mice were used as a model. Scatter blots represent the volume of transplanted tumors at different time points during initial treatment of NEC8 xenografts in athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Compared to the saline control group, muMAB 89A showed inhibition of tumor growth in mice implanted with NEC8 cells (A). Mice were treated for 47 days with PBS and CLDN6 specific antibodies respectively as controls. Tumor growth was monitored for an additional 51 days. In contrast to the PBS control, no tumor was detected at the end of the study among mice treated with muMAB89A (B).
19. Pharmaceutical effect of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 64A in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
Scattered dots represent the volume of the transplanted tumor at different time points during the treatment of advanced NEC8 xenografts in athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Immunotherapy with murine monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibody muMAB 64A showed inhibition of tumor growth of solid NEC8 xenografts compared to both antibody and saline controls.
Figure 20. Long-term pharmaceutical effects of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 64A in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8
15 days after transplantation, mice were treated for 45 days with CLDN6 specific antibody muMAB 64A. Tumor growth was observed for an additional 49 days (A). Survival plots show extended survival of mice treated with CLDN6 specific antibody muMAB 64A (B).
Figure 21.Pharmaceutical effects of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 67A and 89A in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8
Scattered dots represent the volume of transplanted NEC8 tumors at different time points during treatment of advanced NEC8 xenografts. Inhibition of tumor growth was achieved using murine monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies muMAB 61D, 67A and 89A as opposed to saline and antibody controls.
Figure 22. Long-term pharmaceutical effects of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 67A and 89A in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with tumor cell line NEC8
17 days after transplantation, mice were treated with CLDN6 specific antibodies muMAB 61D, 67A and 89A for 42 days (A). Tumor proliferation was observed for 49 days. Survival plots show extended survival of mice treated with CLDN6 specific antibodies muMAB 61D and 67A (B).
Figure 23.Pharmaceutical effects of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 64A and 89A in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with NEC8 wild type and NEC8 cells stably knocked down CLDN6.
MuMAB 64A and 89A show pharmacological effects only in mice transplanted with the NEC8 wild type, not in mice transplanted with CLDN6 knockdown NEC8 cells, indicating the target specificity of the antibody in vivo.
Figure 24. High resolution epitope-mapping of chimMAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A
In the case of wild-type alanine, the alanine variant is termed "wild-type residue number alanine" or "wild-type residue number glycine," wherein the amino acids are given with a one-letter code. The amino acids F35, G37, S39 of the first extracellular domain of CLDN6 and possibly T33 are important for interaction with the CLDN6 specific chimeric antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A. Residue I40 is essential for the binding of chimAB 89A and contributes to the binding of chimAB 61D and 67A. In addition, L151 of the second extracellular domain of CLDN6 contributes to the interaction with chimAB 67A. Although immunofluorescence experiments confirmed the expression of CLDN6 mutants P28A, W30A, G49A, L50A, W51A, C54A and C64A, they did not show membrane staining. For this reason, we cannot exclude the binding of these amino acids to our antibodies. In addition, the epitope identified here is consistent with our immune strategy using DNA and peptides from the EC1 domain of CLDN6.
25. Alignment of amino acid sequence of heavy chain variable region of CLDN6 specific antibody of the present invention
CDR sequences (HCDR1, HCDR2, and HCDR3) are boxed.
26. Alignment diagram of light chain variable region amino acid sequence of CLDN6 specific antibody of the present invention
CDR sequences (LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3) are boxed.
Figure 27. Binding specificity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS.
The binding specificity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody was analyzed by flow cytometry using HEK293T cells transiently transfected with human CLDN6, 3, 4 and 9, respectively. To differentiate the transfected cell population from the non-transfected cell population, the cells were co-transfected with a fluorescent marker as a reporter. The antibody concentration used was that at which the binding was saturated (100 μg/ml). Human CLDN3, 4, 6 and 9 are commercially available monoclonal antibodies against human claudin-3 (R&D Systems, MAB4620) and claudin-4 (R&D Systems, MAB4219), and CLDN6/9-reactive murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 5F2D2. Each was confirmed by using. The chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS have been shown to bind CLDN6 without interacting with CLDN3, 4 and 9, respectively.
Figure 28. Relative binding affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS to HEK293-CLDN6 cells.
To measure relative affinity, binding of anti-CLDN6 antibody to human CLDN6 stably expressed on HEK293 cell surface was measured by flow cytometry. Antibody concentrations were plotted against FACS signal by saturation binding experiment (median of fluorescence intensity). EC50 (antibody concentration binding to half of the binding site in equilibrium) was determined using a nonlinear regression method. CLDN6-specific antibodies showed similarly low EC50 values and achieved binding saturation at low concentrations.
29. Relative binding affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS to NEC8 cells.
To measure the binding affinity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody to tumor cells expressing human CLDN6 intrinsically, binding to the testicular cancer cell line NEC8 was analyzed using flow cytometry. Compared to the CLDN6-specific antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS, the light chain combination variant mAb206-LCC showed three times stronger binding affinity for NEC8 cells. Binding saturation was achieved at low concentrations in all cases.
Figure 30. Relative binding affinity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS to OV90 cells.
The binding affinity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody to human ovarian cancer cell line OV90 was analyzed by flow cytometry. CLDN6-specific antibodies showed similarly low EC50 values. The light chain combination variant mAb206-LCC was shown to bind most strongly to OV90 cells.
Figure 31a. Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG on NEC8 wild-type and NEC8 knockdown cells.
Endogenous ATP in the undissolved cells was detected by measuring the CDC activity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody using a luciferase-dependent assay. Therefore, NEC8 wild-type cells that ectopically express luciferase were treated with different concentrations of chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG. Antibodies against NEC-8 cells showed CDC activity in a dose-dependent manner, whereas for NEC-8 CLDN6 knockdown cells none of these antibodies induced nonspecific cell lysis. These results demonstrate the target specific effector function of chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG.
Figure 31b. Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS on NEC8 cells.
Antibodies showed CDC activity in a dose-dependent manner. The amino acid substitution variants mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS compared to chimAB 64A showed similar CDC activity against NEC8 cells.
Figure 32a. Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS on NEC8 and OV90 cells.
Endocrine ATP in cells was detected at low cost by analyzing the ADCC activity of the anti-CLDN6 antibody using a luciferase-dependent assay. To this end, NEC-8 and OV90 cells were treated with different concentrations with chimeric antibodies against CLDN6. All antibodies exhibited dose-dependent ADCC activity and induced ADCC at low antibody concentrations in both tumor cell lines.
Figure 32b. Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG on NEC8 wild type and NEC8 knockdown cells.
NEC8 cells with stable CLDN6 knockdown were used to demonstrate target specificity.
33. Treatment effect of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
This model used athymic Nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. 17 days after transplantation, mice were treated with CLDN6 specific antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS and tumor growth was monitored. The scattered dots represent the size of the transplanted tumor at different time points during the ongoing treatment of NEC8 xenografts in mice. Chimeric monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS were shown to inhibit tumor growth compared to antibody control.
34. Treatment effect of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS in an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
It shows in more detail that the chimeric monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibody was able to inhibit tumor growth compared to FIG. 33 (A). The survival curve shows that mice treated with CLDN6 specific antibody survived longer (B).
Figure 35. High resolution epitope-mapping of chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS.
The alanine mutant is termed "wild-type residue number alanine," wherein the amino acid is given in a one-letter code. The amino acids F35, G37 and S39 of the first extracellular domain of CLDN6 and potentially T33 are important for interaction with CLDN6 specific chimeric antibodies. ChimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS showed the same binding pattern.
Figure 36. Therapeutic effect of anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 64A in a metastatic xenograft model using mice transplanted with tumor cell line NEC8.
In the metastasis model, NEC8 cells were injected into the tail vein of athymic Nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Three days after transplantation, mice were treated with CLDN6 specific antibody muMAB 64A. After 8 weeks, the lungs were removed and the tumor load was analyzed by PCR. Compared to PBS control, murine monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibody muMAB 64A clearly inhibited tumor growth.
37. Immunohistochemical staining of human cancer and normal tissues using the monoclonal antibodies muMAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG.
In contrast to normal tissue, strong and homogeneous staining was observed in tissue sections from ovarian and testicular cancer. Very strong membrane staining was detected in the malignant epithelial cell population, while adjacent interstitial and nonmalignant epithelial cells were not stained. These results clearly show that the CLDN6-specific antibodies of the present invention specifically bind malignant cells from tumor patients (description: number of tissues stained by antibody / number of tissues analyzed).

Example

The techniques and methods used herein are described herein and methods as described, or methods known per se, such as the paper (Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd Edition (1989) Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, NY). All methods, including the use of kits and reagents, are performed according to manufacturer information unless otherwise specified.

Example 1: Quantification of CLDN6 expression in normal tissue, cancer tissue and cancer cell lines using real-time RT-PCR

Frozen tissue specimens and cancers were primed using dT ₁₈ oligonucleotide, and reverse-transcribed using Superscript II (GIBCO/Lifetech), using the RNeasy Mini Kit (Qiagen). Total RNA of cells was extracted from the cell line. The p53 transcript was amplified by 30 cycle PCR to test the completeness of the obtained cDNA. After normalization to HPRT, the expression of CLDN6 was quantified using ΔΔCT calculation.

Tissues from three individuals were each tested as normal tissue type. After 40 cycles of RT-PCR, only trace amounts of CLDN6 transcript could be detected in normal tissue. The only placenta that slightly exceeded the cut off expression was the placenta.

Unlike normal tissues, we have ovarian cancer (adenocarcinomas), lung cancer (NSCLC, with high frequency and expression levels in adenocarcinoma), gastric cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), malignant black Species, head and neck cancer (malignant pleomorphic adenoma), sarcoma (synovial sarcoma and carcinosarcoma), bile duct cancer, kidney cancer (clear cell carcinoma and papillary carcinoma), uterine cancer and cell line A2780 (ovarian cancer), NIH-OVCAR3 (ovarian cancer), HCT -116 (colon cancer), EFO-27 (ovarian cancer), CPC-N (SCLC), NCI-H552 (NSCLC), SNU-1 (stomach cancer), KATOIII (stomach cancer), YAPC (pancreatic cancer), AGS (stomach cancer), It was found that CLDN6 was highly expressed among samples derived from FU97 (stomach cancer) and MKN7 (stomach cancer).

Example 2: Quantification of CLDN6 expression in normal tissue, cancer tissue and cancer cell lines using Western blot analysis

For Western blow analysis, 20 μg of total protein extracted from cells lysed with Laemmli-lysis buffer was used. The extract was diluted in a reducing sample buffer (Roth), SDS-PAGE was performed, and then transferred electrically onto a PVDF membrane (Pall). Iosin staining was performed using polyclonal antibodies reactive to CLDN6 (ARP) and beta-Actin (Abcam), followed by horseradish-peroxy conjugated with anti-mouse and anti-rabbit secondary antibodies. Primary antibodies were detected using Dako.

Tissue lysates from up to 5 individuals were each tested in normal tissue type. CLDN6 protein expression was not detected in any of the normal tissues analyzed. In contrast to normal tissue, high expression of CLDN6 protein was detected in samples derived from ovarian and lung cancer. CLDN6 expression is NIH-OVCAR3 (ovarian cancer), MKN7 (stomach cancer), AGS (stomach cancer), CPC-N (SCLC), HCT-116 (colon cancer), FU97 (stomach cancer), NEC8 (testicular carcinoma), JAR (placental villi) Epithelial cancer), JEG3 (placental chorionic carcinoma), BEWO (placental chorionic carcinoma), and PA-1 (ovarian teratocarcinoma).

Example 3: Immunohistochemical staining (IHC) analysis of CLDN6 expression in normal and cancerous tissues

Paraffin-embedded tissue fragments (4 μm) were incubated on a heating plate (HI 1220, Leica) at 58° C. for 1 hour. The slides were incubated for 2 x 10 min at RT in Roticlear (Roth) to remove paraffin from the fragments. The fragments were then rehydrated in graded alcohol (99%, 2 x 96%, 80% and 70%, 5 minutes each). Antigen recovery was performed by boiling the slides for 15 min at 120°C (15 psi) in 10 mM citrate buffer (pH 6.0) + 0,05% Tween-20. Immediately afterwards, the boiled slides were incubated in PBS for 5 minutes. Endogenous peroxidase activity was blocked using 0,3% hydrogen peroxide in MeOH for 15 min at RT. To avoid non-specific binding, slides were blocked with 10% goat serum in PBS for 30 minutes at RT. The slides were then incubated overnight at 4° C. with CLDN6-specific polyclonal antibody (1 μg/ml) (ARP). The next day, slides were washed at RT (3 x 5 min) using PBS and incubated with 100 μl of secondary antibody (PowerVision poly HRP-Anti-Rabbit IgG (ImmunoLogic) ready to use) for 1 hour at RT. The slides were then washed with PBS at RT (3×5 min.) Final staining was performed using the Vector Novared Substrate Kit SK-4800 purchased from Vector Lab (Burlingame). The fragments were counter stained with hematoxylin for 90 seconds at RT. After 10 minutes incubation in dehydration and xylol with graded alcohol (70%, 80%, 2x 96% and 99%, 5 minutes each), the slides were mounted in an X-tra Kit, Medite Histotechnic. .

CLDN6 expression was not detected in normal tissue derived from lung, ovary, stomach, colon, pancreas, liver, interest or kidney. In contrast to normal tissue, strong and at least significant staining was observed on tissue fragments from ovarian cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, transitional cell carcinoma, cervical cancer, testicular cancer and uterine cancer. While staining was clearly emphasized on the cell membrane of the malignant epithelial cell population, this was not the case in adjacent stroma and non-malignant epithelial cells. These results indicate that CLDN6 protein is localized to the cell membrane of malignant cells.

Example 4: Preparation of murine antibodies to CLDN6

a. Preparation of expression vectors encoding full-length CLDN6 and CLDN6 fragments

A codon-optimized artificial DNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 3) encoding the full-length CLDN6 (NCBI accession number NP_067018.2, SEQ ID NO: 2) was prepared by chemical synthesis (GENEART AG, Germany), pcDNA3.1/ myc Vector p3953 was prepared by cloning into -His vector (Invitrogen, USA). Insertion of the stop codon allowed expression of the CLDN6 protein without fusion to the vector encoding the myc- His tag. Expression of CLDN6 was tested by Western blot, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analysis using a commercially available anti-CLDN6 antibody (ARP, 01-8865; R&D Systems, MAB3656).

In addition, in order to ensure correct signal peptide cleavage site (SEQ ID NO: 5), as a fusion form with a signal peptide derived from an N-terminal Ig kappa leader followed by four additional amino acids, CLDN6 (SEQ ID NO: 6) A codon-optimized DNA sequence encoding a potential extracellular domain 2 (EC2) fragment (SEQ ID NO: 4) was prepared and cloned into pcDNA3.1/ myc- His vector to produce vector p3974. Prior to immunization, transiently infected paraformaldehyde (PFA)-immobilized CHO-K1 cells were observed under an immunofluorescence microscope using a commercially available anti- myc antibody (Cell Signaling, MAB 2276) to express the EC2 fragment. Was confirmed.

b. Preparation of cell lines stably expressing CLDN6

HEK293 and P3X63Ag8U.1 cell lines stably expressing CLDN6 were prepared using standard techniques using vector p3953.

c. Immunization

P3974 plasmid DNA with 4 μl of PEI-mannose (PEI-Man; in vitro-jetPEI ^™ Man from polyplus transfection) (PEI-Man 150 mM in 5% glucose aqueous solution) on days 0, 16 and 36 Using 25 μg, Balb/c mice were immunized by intraperitoneal injection. Mice were immunized by intraperitoneal injection of P3X63Ag8U.1 myeloma cells infected with p3953 vector to stably express CLDN6 on days 48 and 62. Cells administered on day 62 were irradiated at 3000 rad prior to injection. The presence of antibodies against CLDN6 in mouse serum was examined by immunofluorescence microscopy on day 20-70 using CHO-K1 cells co-infected with nucleic acids encoding CLDN6 and GFP. To this end, PFA-immobilized or unimmobilized cells were cultured for 45 minutes at room temperature (RT) with a 1:100 dilution of serum from immunized mice 24 hours after infection. Cells were washed and incubated with Alexa555-labeled anti-mouse Ig antibody (Molecular Probes) and observed under a fluorescence microscope.

Anti-CLDN6 specific antibody was detected in serum samples obtained from mice that were the basis for preparing hybridoma F3-6C3-H8 (see FIG. 2).

For monoclonal antibody production, mice with a detectable anti-CLDN6 immune response were stimulated by intraperitoneal injection of 2 x 10 ⁷ HEK293 cells stably infected with the p3953 vector 4 days prior to spleen resection.

d. Preparation of hybridomas producing murine monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

6 x 10 ⁷ splenocytes isolated from immunized mice were fused with 3 x 10 ⁷ cells of mouse myeloma cell line P3X63Ag8.653 (ATCC, CRL 1580) using PEG 1500 (Roche, CRL 10783641001). Place approximately 5 x 10 ⁴ cells per well of a flat bottom microtiter plate, heat inactivated fetal bovine serum 10%, hybridoma fusion and cloning supplement (HFCS, Roche, CRL 11363735) 1%, HEPES 10 mM, Incubated for about 2 weeks in RPMI selective medium containing 1 mM sodium pyruvate, 4.5% glucose, 0.1 mM 2-mercaptoethanol, 1 x penicillin/streptomycin and 1 x HAT supplement (Invitrogen, CRL 21060). After 10-14 days, individual wells were screened for anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies using a flow cytometer. Antibody secreting hybridomas were subcloned with limited dilution and tested again for anti-CLDN6 monoclonal antibodies. For characterization, stable subclones were cultured to generate small amounts of antibody in tissue culture medium. At least one clone of each hybridoma (tested by flow cytometry) that retained the reactivity of the parental cells was selected. Each nine-vial-cell bank was generated and stored in liquid nitrogen.

Example 5: Binding properties of monoclonal antibody and hybridoma supernatant

a. Quality control of temporarily infected HEK293T cells using (i) Western blot and (ii) flow cytometry

(i) HEK293T cells were infected with nucleic acids encoding CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 and CLDN9, respectively, or by imitation. Expression of CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 and CLDN9 in HEK293T cells was measured by Western blot. For this, cells were harvested and lysed 24 hours after infection. Anti-CLDN3(A) (Invitrogen, 34-1700), anti- binds to the C-terminus of the corresponding claudin under denaturing conditions by performing SDS-PAGE on the lysate, depositing it on a nitroscellulose membrane. Stained using CLDN4(A) (Zymed, 32-9400), anti-CDLN6(A) (ARP, 01-8865) or anti-CLDN9(A) (Santa Cruz, sc-17672) antibody. After incubation with a peroxidase-labeled secondary antibody and development with ECL reagent, the LAS-3000 imaging agent (Fuji) was used for visualization. The predicted molecular weight bands of CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 and CLDN9 were only observed among infected cells, not among control cells (FIG. 3 ), where HEK293T cells did not endogenously express any of the claudins studied. Therefore, it was shown to be a suitable tool for determining the cross reactivity of CLDN6.

(ii) Flow cells using anti-CLDN antibodies (mouse anti-CLDN3 IgG2a (R&D, MAB4620), mouse anti-CLDN4 IgG2a (R&D, MAB4219), mouse anti-CLDN6 IgG2b (R&D, MAB3656)) that recognize natural epitopes The HEK293T cells of (i) were further analyzed by the analysis method. Antibodies available from Sigma under the product numbers M9144 and M8894 were used as isotype controls. The specificity of these anti-CLDN antibodies was analyzed using HEK293T cells transiently infected with nucleic acids encoding CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 and CLDN9, respectively. Anti-CLDN6 antibodies showed cross-reactivity with CLDN3, CLDN4 and CLDN9. Anti-CLDN4 antibodies showed cross-reactivity with CLDN3, CLDN6 and CLDN9. Anti-CLDN3 specifically bound to CLDN3 (Figure 4).

b. Determination of the specificity of monoclonal antibodies produced according to the invention using flow cytometry

HEK293T cells were co-infected with vectors encoding different CLDN proteins and vectors encoding fluorescent markers. Cells were harvested using 0.05% trypsin/EDTA solution 24 hours after infection and washed with FACS buffer (PBS with 2% FCS and 0.1% sodium azide). Cells were transferred to U-bottom microtiter plates at 2 x 10 ⁵ cells per well and incubated for 60 min at 4°C with hybridoma supernatant. Washed three times with FACS buffer and cells were incubated with allopicocyanin (APC)-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+2a+2b+3 specific secondary antibody (Dianova, 115-135-164). Then, the cells were washed twice, and binding was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray (FIG. 5 ). The expression of the fluorescent marker for antibody binding on the vertical axis is shown on the horizontal axis. A commercially available mouse anti-CLDN6 IgG2b antibody (R&D, MAB3656) was used as a positive control, and an antibody commercially available from Sigma under product number M8894 was used as an isotype control.

Monoclonal hybridoma subclones F3-6C3-H2, F3-6C3-H8, F3-6C3-H9, F3-6C3-D8 and F3-6C3-G4 all derived from hybridoma F3-6C3 Antibodies in the supernatant were specific for CLDN6 and did not bind to CLDN9, CLDN3 and CLDN4. 5A exemplarily shows the results for monoclonal hybridoma subclones F3-6C3-H8. Antibodies in the supernatant from the monoclonal hybridoma subclonal F3-6C3-H8 also bound cells infected with the (I143V)-SNP variant of CLDN6. Antibodies in supernatants derived from monoclonal hybridoma subclones F4-4F7-F2 bind to both CLDN6 and CLDN9 (Figure 5A). Antibodies in supernatants derived from monoclonal hybridoma subclones F3-7B3-B4 bind to CLDN6, CLDN3 and CLDN9 (Figure 5B). Antibodies in supernatants derived from monoclonal hybridoma subclones F3-3F7-A5 bind to CLDN6, CLDN4 and CLDN9 (Figure 5B).

Example 6: Generation and testing of monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

a. Preparation of expression vector encoding extracellular domain 1 of CLDN6

As a fusion with an N-terminal Ig kappa leader derived from a signal peptide followed by four additional amino acids to ensure correct signal peptidase cleavage site (SEQ ID NO: 13), potential CLDN6 (SEQ ID NO: 7) A codon-optimized DNA sequence encoding the extracellular domain 1 (EC1) fragment of) (SEQ ID NO: 12) was prepared and cloned into pcDNA3.1/myc-His vector to prepare vector p3973. Prior to immunization, transiently infected paraformaldehyde (PFA)-immobilized CHO-K1 cells were observed with an immunofluorescence microscope using a commercially available anti-myc antibody (Cell Signaling, MAB 2276). Expression was confirmed.

b. Immunization

25 μg of p3973 plasmid DNA with 4 μl of PEI-Mannose (PEI-Man; in vivo-jetPEI ^™ Man from polyplus transfection) (PEI-Man 150 mM in 5% glucose aqueous solution) on Days 0 and 14 Using, intraperitoneal injection, Balb/c mice were immunized. KLH-conjugated peptide SEQ ID NO: 14 and SEQ ID NO: 15 with HPLC-purified PTO-CpG-ODN (25 μg in PBS; 5′-TCCATGACGTTCCTGACGTT; Europin MWG operon, Germany) on Days 28 and 44 Mice were immunized subcutaneously with (100 μg in PBS, JPT Peptide Technology, Germany, respectively). On days 64, 77 and 97, mice were immunized by intraperitoneal injection of 2 x 10 ⁷ P3X63Ag8U.1 myeloma cells infected with p3953 vector to stably express CLDN6. Cells were treated with mitomycin-C (2,5 μg/ml, Sigma-Aldrich, M4287) prior to administration. Cells were administered with HPLC-purified PTO-CpG-ODN (50 μg in PBS) on days 64 and 97, and with incomplete Freud's adjuvant on day 77.

For monoclonal antibody production, mice with stably detectable anti-CLDN6 immune responses were stimulated by intraperitoneal administration of 2 x 10 ⁷ HEK293 cells stably infected with the p3953 vector 4 days prior to spleen resection.

c. Testing of monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

Flow cytometry

To test the binding of the monoclonal antibody to CLDN6 and its homologue, HEK293T cells were transiently infected with the corresponding claudin-coding plasmid and expression was analyzed using a flow cytometer. In order to differentiate between infected and non-infected cells, HEK293T cells were co-infected with a fluorescent marker as a reporter. After 24 hours of infection, cells were harvested using 0.05% trypsin/EDTA, washed using FACS buffer (PBS with 2% FCS and 0.1% sodium azide), and the concentration was 2 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml. Resuspended in FACS buffer. For 30 minutes at 4° C., 100 μl of cell suspension was incubated with the appropriate antibody at the indicated concentration. Cross-reactive antibodies were used to detect CLDN6 and CLDN9 expression. Commercially available mouse anti-claddin antibodies anti-CLDN3 (R&D, MAB4620) and anti-CLDN4 (R&D, MAB4219) were used as positive controls, and mouse IgG2a (Sigma, M9144) and IgG2b (Sigma, M8894) were iso. It was used as a type control. Cells were washed 3 times using FACS buffer and incubated with APC-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+2a+2b+3a specific secondary antibody (Dianova, 115-135-164) for 30 min at 4°C. . Cells were washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Binding was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray. The expression of the fluorescent marker for antibody binding on the vertical axis is shown on the horizontal axis.

CDC

After adding human complement to target cells cultured with anti-CLDN6 antibody, complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) was measured by measuring the content of intracellular ATP in undissolved cells. As a very sensitive analytical technique for ATP measurement, the luminescence reaction of luciferase was used.

CHO-K1 cells stably infected with CLDN6 (CHO-K1-CLDN6) were harvested with 0.05% trypsin/EDTA, washed twice with X-Vivo 15 medium (Lonza, BE04-418Q), and in X-Vivo 15 medium. Resuspended at a concentration of 1 x 10 ⁷ cells/ml.

250 μl of the cell suspension was transferred to a 0.4 cm electrophoretic cuvette and mixed with 7 μg of in vitro transcribed RNA encoding luciferase IVT RNA. Cells were electrophoresed at 200 V and 300 μF using Gene Pulser Xcell (Bio Rad). D-preheated with GlutaMax-I medium (Invitrogen, 31331-093) containing 10% (v/v) FCS, 1% (v/v) penicillin/streptomycin and 1.5 mg/ml G418 after electrophoresis Cells were suspended in MEM/F12 (1:1). 50 μl of cell suspension per cell was placed in a FF white 96-well PP-plate and cultured at 7.5% CO ₂ and 37° C. After 24 hours of electrophoresis, 50 μl of monoclonal murine anti-CLDN6 in 60% RPMI (including 20 mM HEPES) and 40% human serum (serum pool from 6 healthy donors) was added to cells at the indicated concentrations. Did. While 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS was added to the total lysis control at 10 μl per well, the maximum viable cells control and the actual sample were PBS at 10 μl per well. Was added. Luciferin mix (3.84 mg/ml D-luciferin, 0,64 U/ml ATPase and 160 mM HEPES in ddH ₂ O) after 50 minutes of incubation at 7.5% CO ₂ and 37° C. was added at 50 μl per well. Plates were incubated in the dark for 45 minutes at RT. Luminescence was measured using a luminometer (Infinite M200, TECAN). Results are expressed as integrated digital relative light units (RLU) values.

NEC8 cells were electrophoresed at 200 V and 400 μF and cultured in RPMI 1640 with GlutaMAX-I medium (Invitrogen, 61870) containing 10% (v/v) FCS.

Specific lysis is calculated by:

Max viable cells : 10 μl PBS without antibody

Total lysis : 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS without antibody

Early treatment

For initial antibody treatment, 2 x 10 ⁷ NEC8 cells in 200 μl PBS were injected subcutaneously into the flank of athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Each experimental group consisted of 10 male mice 6-8 weeks of age. After 3 days of inoculation, 200 μg of purified murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A were applied for 46 days by repeating intravenous and intraperitoneal administration twice a week. The group treated with PBS was used as a negative control. Tumor volume (TV = (length x width ² )/2) was observed once every two weeks. TV is expressed in mm ³ , which allows for the structure of the curve of tumor growth over time. Mice were sacrificed when the tumor reached a volume greater than 1500 mm ³ .

d. Experiment result

The murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed strong binding to human CLDN6 and CLDN6 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants I143V, while binding to CLDN3, 4, and 9 Was not observed (Fig. 6).

MuMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 200-500 ng/ml) and achieved binding saturation at low concentrations (FIG. 7 ).

MuMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed positive-dependent CDC activity and induced CDC at low temperature (FIG. 8 ). Anti-CLDN6 antibodies 65A and 66B induced CDC on NEC8 cells in a sheep dependent manner (FIG. 9 ). The target specificity of muMAB 65A and 66B was demonstrated using NEC8 LVTS2 54 cells (CLDN6 knock down).

In addition, muMAB 59A, 60A, 61D, 64A, 65A, 66B and 67A showed tumor growth inhibition in mice implanted with NEC8 cells (FIG. 10 ).

Example 7: Generation and testing of chimeric monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

a. Generation of mouse/human chimeric monoclonal antibodies

For chimerization, the murine heavy and light chain variable regions containing the leader sequence were amplified by PCR using the primers listed in the table below. The murine heavy chain was fused to the N-terminal site of the human Fcgamma1 chain encoded by the expression vector using the ApaI restriction site (5'-GGGCCC-3'). The variable domain of the murine kappa chain containing the leader sequence was cloned in front of the constant region using the BsiWI restriction site. The correct direction of the constant region of the vector, i.e., a suitable direction for the preceding promoter of the vector, was confirmed by sequencing. Because of the ApaI restriction site location, any amplification of the variable region comprising the leader sequence for this purpose should include the first 11 nucleotides of the human gamma-1 constant region sequence in addition to the ApaI region sequence. The nucleotide sequence of the human gamma-1 heavy chain constant region is listed as SEQ ID NO: 24, and the amino acid sequence of the human gamma-1 constant region so expressed is listed as SEQ ID NO: 25. The nucleotide sequence encoding the constant region of the kappa light chain is listed as SEQ ID NO: 26, and the individual amino acid sequence is listed as SEQ ID NO: 27.

Table 1: Mouse hybridoma cell lines used for antibody cloning

muMAB Isotype primer
SEQ ID NOs: Heavy chain 64A IgG2a 17, 18 89A IgG2a 17, 19 61D IgG2a 17, 20 67A IgG2a 17, 20 Light chain 64A IgK 21, 22 89A IgK 21, 23 61D IgK 21, 22 67A IgK 21, 22

Chimeric monoclonal antibodies corresponding to their murine counterparts were prefixed with "chim" and named, for example, chimAB 64A. Amplification of the murine variable regions of the light and heavy chains comprising the leader sequence was performed by Matz et al. (Matz et al. ., Nucleic Acids Research, 1999, Vol. 27, No. 6). To this end, total RNA was prepared from monoclonal hybridoma cell lines by standard methods known to those skilled in the art, such as using the RNeasy mini kit (Qiagen) (see Table 1). In addition, single-strand cDNA was prepared according to the “template-switch” technique described by Matz et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 1999, Vol. 27, No. 6, 1558. In addition to the (dT)30 oligomer (SEQ ID NO: 28), it included a DNA/RNA hybrid oligomer (SEQ ID NO: 29) to function as a 5 adapter for template switching during polymerization of the cDNA strand. The last three nucleotides in this adapter oligomer were ribonucleotides instead of deoxyribonucleotides. The subsequent "step-out PCR" used an antisense oligomer targeting the constant region of the mouse kappa chain or the constant region of subclass 2a of the gamma chain (SEQ ID NO: 30 and 31, respectively). The IgG subclass of the murine monoclonal antibody produced by the hybridoma cell line was previously immunologically analyzed with IsoStrip (Roche), and appropriate antisense oligomers were selected accordingly (see FIG. 1 ). A primer mixture comprising two oligomers listed in SEQ ID NOs: 32 and 33 was used as a sense oligomer in "step-out PCR". 5'UTR and 3'mouse constants were then lost, including human constants The identified murine variable region containing the leader sequence was amplified by PCR by adding a restriction site at the end to enable subcloning into the prepared expression vector. The sense oligomer then provided an antisense oligomer for the heavy chain variable region comprising the first 11 nucleotides of the human gamma-1 constant region in addition to the matched Kozak sequence (5'-GCCGCCACC-3') and the ApaI restriction site. (See Table 1, SEQ ID NOs: 17-23). The kappa light chain variable portion containing the leader sequence was cloned using HindIII and BsiWI restriction enzymes, gamma heavy chain variable region required HindIII and ApaI restriction enzymes.

The murine variable regions of the additional light and heavy chains containing the leader sequence were amplified, and chimeric monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6 were further generated according to the protocol described above.

b. Production of chimeric monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies

Chimeric monoclonal antibodies were transiently expressed in HEK293T cells (ATCC CRL-11268) infected with plasmid DNA encoding the light and heavy chains of the corresponding antibodies. 24 hours before infection, 8 x 10 ⁷ cells were placed in a 145 mm cell culture plate and cultured in 25 ml HEK293T-medium (DMEM/F12 + GlutaMAX-I, 10% FCS, 1% penicillin/streptomycin). Per cell culture plate, 20 μg of plasmid DNA was dissolved in 5 ml of HEK293T-medium without supplements. After adding 75 μl of linear polyethyleneimine (PEI) (1 mg/ml) (Polyscience, 23966), the (DNA:PEI)-mixture was incubated at RT for 15 minutes. The infection-mixture was then added to the cells by dropping. 24 hours after infection, HEK293T-medium was replaced with Pro293a-medium (Lonza, BE12-764Q) containing 1% penicillin/streptomycin. For optimal expression, infected cells were incubated at 37° C. and 7,5% CO ₂ for an additional time of 96 to 120 hours. The supernatant was harvested and chimeric antibodies were purified by FPLC using a protein-A column. The concentration of the antibody was measured by SDS-PAGE, and the quality was measured.

c. Testing of chimeric monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

Flow cytometry

To test the specificity and affinity of HEK293 cells stably infected with CLDN3, 4, 6 or 9 and CLDN6-specific chimeric monoclonal antibodies that bind endogenously CLDN6 expressing tumor cell lines, flow cytometry was performed. Was performed. Therefore, cells were harvested with 0.05% trypsin/EDTA, washed with FACS buffer (2% FCS with PBS and 0.1% sodium azide) and resuspended in FACS buffer at a concentration of 2 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml. 100 μl of the cell suspension was incubated at 4° C. for 60 minutes with the indicated concentrations of the appropriate antibody. To detect CLDN6 and CLDN9 expression, a chimeric cross-reactive antibody (chimAB 5F2D2) was used. The commercially available mouse anti-cludin antibodies, anti-CLDN3 (R&D, MAB4620) and anti-CLDN4 (R&D, MAB4219) were used as positive controls, while human IgG1-kappa (Sigma, I5154) was used as negative control. Cells were washed 3 times with FACS buffer and APC-conjugated goat anti-human IgG Fc-gamma (Dianova, 109-136-170) or APC-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+2a+2b+3a (Dianova, 115- 135-164) Incubated for 30 minutes at 4°C with each of the specific secondary antibodies. Cells were washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Binding was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray.

CDC

Complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) was measured by measuring the content of intracellular ATP in undissolved cells after adding human complement to target cells cultured with anti-CLDN6 antibody. For the measurement of ATP, a bioluminescence reaction of luciferase is used as a very sensitive analytical method.

In this analysis, NEC8 wild type cells (CLDN6 positive) and NEC8 CLDN6 knockdown cells (CLDN6 negative), both of which stably introduced the luciferase expression construct, were used. Cells were harvested using 0.05% Trypsin/EDTA, and at a concentration of 2 x 10 ⁵ cells/ml in RPMI using GlutaMax-I medium (Invitrogen, 61870-010) containing 10% (v/v) FCS. Adjusted. 1×10 ⁴ cells were placed in a white 96-well PP-plate and incubated at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ for 24 hours. After incubation 50 μl of monoclonal chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody in 60% RPMI (including 20 mM HEPES) and 40% human serum (serum pool from 6 healthy donors) were added to cells at the indicated concentrations. . 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS per well was added to the total lysis control, while 10 μl of PBS per well was added to the max viable cells control and the actual sample Did. After further incubation at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ for 80 minutes, 50 μl of the luciferin mixture per well (3.84 mg/ml D-luciferin, 0.64 U/ml ATPase and 160 mM HEPES in ddH ₂ O) was added. Plates were incubated for 45 minutes at RT in the dark. Bioluminescence was measured using a luminometer (Infinite M200, TECAN). Results are expressed as integrated digital relative light units (RLU) values.

The specific lysis is calculated as follows:

Max viable cells : 10 μl PBS without antibody

Total lysis : 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton in PBS without antibody

ADCC

Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) was measured by measuring the intracellular ATP content in undissolved cells after adding human PBMC to target cells cultured with anti-CLDN6 antibody. For the measurement of ATP, a bioluminescence reaction of luciferase was used as a very sensitive analytical technique.

For this analysis, NEC-8 wild type cells (CLDN6 positive) and NEC-8 CLDN6 knockdown cells (CLDN6 negative) stably introducing luciferase expression constructs were used for both. Cells were harvested with 0.05% trypsin/EDTA and 2×10 ⁵ cells/ml in RPMI using GlutaMax-I medium (Invitrogen, 61870-010) containing 10% (v/v) FCS and 20 mM Hepes. The concentration was adjusted. 1×10 ⁴ cells were placed in a white 96-well PP-plate and incubated at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ for 4 hours.

PBMCs were separated from human donor blood samples by density gradient centrifugation using Piccol Highpark (GE Healthcare, 17144003). The intermediate phase containing PBMC was separated, and the cells were washed twice using PBS/EDTA (2 mM). 1×10 ⁸ PBMCs were inoculated in 50 ml of X-Vivo 15 medium (Lonza, BE04-418Q) containing 5% heat-inactivated human serum (Lonza, US14-402E), 37° C. and 5% CO Incubated for ₂ to 2 hours. Four hours after inoculation of target cells (NEC-8), 25 μl of monoclonal chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody in PBS was added to cells at the indicated concentrations. Non-adhesive PBMCs isolated from adherent mononuclear cells were harvested within 2 hours of culture and adjusted to a concentration of 8 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml in X-vivo 15 medium. 25 μl of this cell suspension was added to target cells and monoclonal chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody. Plates were incubated at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ for 24 hours.

After 24 hours of incubation, 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS per well was added to the total lysis control, while 10 μl of PBS per well was added to the maximum viable cells control And to the actual sample. 50 μl of the luciferin mixture per well (3.84 mg/ml D-luciferin, 0.64 U/ml ATPase and 160 mM HEPES) in ddH ₂ O was added. Plates were incubated for 30 minutes at dark RT. Bioluminescence was measured using a luminometer (Infinite M200, TECAN). Results are expressed as integrated digital relative light units (RLU) values.

The specific lysis is calculated as follows:

최대 생존 세포(max viable cells): 항체 없이 PBS 10 ㎕

Max viable cells : 10 μl PBS without antibody

Total lysis : 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS without antibody

d. Experiment result

The anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A showed strong binding to human CLDN6, while no binding to CLDN3, 4, and 9 was observed (FIG. 11 ).

With respect to binding to human CLDN6 stably expressed on the surface of HEK293 cells, the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 450-600 ng/ml) and binding saturation Was achieved at very low concentrations. ChimAB 67A and 61D showed low EC50 values (EC50 1000 ng/ml) and medium EC50 values (EC50 2300 ng/ml), respectively (FIG. 12).

Regarding binding to CLDN6, which is endogenously expressed in NEC8 cells, the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 600-650 ng/ml), and the saturation of binding While achieved at very low concentrations, chimAB 61D and 67A showed medium EC50 values (EC50 1700 ng/ml) and high EC50 values (EC50 6100 ng/ml), respectively (FIG. 13 ).

Regarding binding to CLDN6, which is endogenously expressed in OV90 cells, anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A and 89A showed very low EC50 values (EC50 550-600 ng/ml), and binding saturation was low. Concentration was achieved. ChimAB 61D and 67A showed intermediate EC50 values (EC50 1500 ng/ml and EC50 2300 ng/ml, respectively) (FIG. 14 ).

The anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A showed CDC activity against NEC-8 cells in a positive-dependent manner (FIG. 15 ).

The anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A showed positive-dependent ADCC activity against NEC-8 cells and induced ADCC even at low antibody concentrations (FIG. 16 ).

These results clearly show the specificity of this chimeric monoclonal antibody against CLDN6.

Example 8: Treatment with monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

Initial treatment

For initial antibody treatment, 2 x 10 ⁷ NEC8 cells in 200 μl of RPMI medium (Gibco) were inoculated subcutaneously in the flank of athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Each experimental group consisted of 10 magnetic mice 6-8 weeks of age. Three days after tumor cell inoculation, 200 μg of purified murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 89A was applied for 7 weeks in a manner of alternating intravenous and intraperitoneal administration twice a week. The experimental group treated with PBS was used as a negative control. Tumor volume (TV = (length x width ² )/2) was monitored once every two weeks. The TV was expressed in mm ³ , which allows for the curve structure of tumor growth over time. Mice were sacrificed when the tumor reached a volume greater than 1500 mm ³ .

Advanced treatment

For antibody treatment of advanced xenograft tumors, 2 x 10 ⁷ NEC8 cells in 200 μl of RPMI medium (Gibco) were inoculated subcutaneously into the flanks of 6-8 week old magnetic athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Tumor volume (TV = (length x width ² )/2) was monitored once every two weeks. The TV was expressed in mm ³ , which allows for the curve structure of tumor growth over time. After 15 to 17 days of tumor cell inoculation, mice were sorted into treatment groups of 8 animals per cohort with a uniform tumor size greater than 80 mm ³ . 200 μg of purified murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A were applied for 5 weeks in alternating intravenous and intraperitoneal administration twice a week. The experimental group and non-specific antibody treated with PBS were used as a negative control. Mice were sacrificed when the tumor reached a volume greater than 1500 mm ³ .

In the initial treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with the tumor cell line NEC8, mice treated with the murine monoclonal antibodies muMAB 61D, 64A and 67A showed no tumor growth even after discontinuation of immunotherapy (FIG. 17 ).

In the initial treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with the tumor cell line NEC8, muMAB 89A showed cancer growth inhibition, and no tumors were detected in mice treated with muMAB89A at the end of the study (FIG. 18 ).

In an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with the tumor cell line NEC8, muMAB 64A showed inhibition of tumor growth (FIG. 19 ).

Progressive treatment with mice transplanted with the tumor cell line NEC8 In a xenograft model, mice treated with muMAB 64A showed prolonged survival (FIG. 20 ).

In an advanced treatment xenograft model using mice implanted with the tumor cell line NEC8, inhibition of tumor growth was achieved using the murine monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies muMAB 61D, 67A and 89A (FIG. 21 ).

In the advanced treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with tumor cell line NEC8, mice treated with CLDN6 specific antibody muMAB 61D or 67A showed prolonged survival (FIG. 22 ).

Progressive treatment with mice with NEC8 wild type and stably implanted NEC8 cells with CLDN6 knockdown In a xenograft model, muMAB 64A and 89A showed therapeutic effect only in mice implanted with NEC8 wild type, and implanted CLDN6 knockdown NEC8 cells. This was not the case in mice, indicating the CLDN6-specificity of the antibody in vivo (FIG. 23 ).

Example 9: High-resolution epitope mapping of monoclonal antibodies to CLDN6

CLDN6 specific monoclonal antibodies showed only very weak binding (if any) to linear peptides in the ELISA epitope-mapping study, implying that their epitopes are conformational. To analyze the interactions between the antibodies described herein and the natural conformational CLDN6, specific site mutations in mammalian cell culture were used as epitope-mapping techniques. Alanine scanning mutagenesis of amino acids 27-81 and 137-161 in the first and second extracellular domains was performed, respectively. Following transient expression in HEK293T cells, the ability of CLDN6 variants to bind specific monoclonal antibodies was analyzed. Damage to binding of specific monoclonal antibodies to CLDN6 variants suggests that the mutated amino acids are important residues in contact and/or conformation. Binding was analyzed by flow cytometry. To differentiate between infected and uninfected cell populations, cells were co-infected with fluorescent markers.

CLDN6 amino acid residues important for binding to CLDN6 specific chimeric antibodies have been identified entirely by alanine-scanning. Alanine and glycine mutations were generated by specific site mutation generation (GENEART AG, Germany). To test the binding of the monoclonal chimeric antibody to wild-type CLDN6 and its variants, HEK293T cells were transiently infected with a plasmid encoding the corresponding claudin, and the expression was analyzed by flow cytometry. To differentiate between infected and uninfected cells, HEK293T cells were co-infected with fluorescent markers as reporters. After 24 hours of infection, cells are harvested with 0.05% trypsin/EDTA, washed with FACS buffer (PBS with 2% FCS and 0.1% sodium azide) and resuspended in FACS buffer at a concentration of 2 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml. Ordered. 100 μl of the cell suspension was incubated with 10 μg/ml of the antibody at 4° C. for 45 minutes. Commercially available mouse anti-CLDN6 (R&D, MAB3656) was used to detect cell-surface expression of CLDN6 variants. Cells were washed 3 times using FACS buffer and APC-conjugated goat anti-human IgG Fc-gamma (Dianova, 109-136-170) or APC-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+ for 30 min at 4°C. Incubated with 2a+2b+3a specific secondary antibody (Dianova, 115-135-164). Cells were washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Binding in the infected cell population was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray. Thus, the expression of the fluorescent marker is plotted on the horizontal axis for antibody binding on the vertical axis. The average signal intensity of the monoclonal chimeric CLDN6 specific antibody bound to the variant CLDN6 is expressed as a percentage of wild type binding. The amino acids essential for binding did not show any binding after mutation, whereas the amino acids that assisted binding showed reduced binding compared to the wild type.

High resolution epitope-mapping showed that amino acids F35, G37, S39 of the first extracellular domain of CLDN6 and possibly T33 are important for binding to the CLDN6 specific chimeric antibodies chimAB 61D, 64A, 67A and 89A. Residue I40 is essential for the binding of chimAB 89A and contributes to the binding of chimAB 61D and 67A. In addition, L151 of the second extracellular domain of CLDN6 is important for interaction with chimAB 67A (Figure 24).

Example 10: Production and testing of improved monoclonal antibodies against CLDN6

Antibody 64A provides a free cysteine residue at light chain position 46, although it is excellent in binding properties to CLDN6 or efficacy in terms of tumor treatment, it can potentially compromise its properties in terms of solubility, stability and aggregate formation. It turns out to have. This free cysteine may also be undesirable for other reasons, such as regulatory properties. The inventors therefore sought to make an antibody with free cysteine residues avoided at position 46 while preserving its desirable properties based on 64A.

The chimeric monoclonal antibody mAb206-LCC was made by combining the heavy chain of chimAB 64A and the light chain of chimAB 61D. MAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS were constructed by amino acid substitution. To this end, cysteine at position 46 in the light chain of chimAB 64A was replaced with glycine and serine, respectively.

Production of chimeric monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies in HEK293T

As disclosed in section b of Example 7, chimeric monoclonal antibodies were transiently expressed in HEK293T cells (ATCC CRL-11268) transfected with plasmid DNA encoding the light and heavy chains of the corresponding antibodies.

Production of chimeric monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibodies in suspension adapted CHO-cells

The suspension-adapted CHO-cells were passaged in serum-free medium in a wet CO ₂ shaker. One day prior to transfection, cells were seeded in serum-free medium in shake flasks. On the day of transfection cells were centrifuged (5 min at 200 xg) and resuspended in fresh DMEM-medium (Invitrogen, 41965-039) in a shake flask. DNA and transfection reagents were added to the cells and mixed gently by shaking. After static incubation in a CO ₂ -incubator, cells were diluted with serum-free growth medium and further cultured on an incubator shaker for expression. Cells were fed CHO CD EfficientFeed ^™ A and B (Invitrogen, A1023401 and A1024001) on Days 0, 2, 4 and 6, respectively. Chimeric antibodies were harvested after the viability of the cells had dropped below 90%. Antibodies were purified by FPLC using a Protein-A column. The antibody concentration was measured at 280 nm, and the purity was analyzed by SDS-PAGE.

Flow cytometry

Binding of CLDN6-specific chimeric monoclonal antibodies to cells expressing the target was analyzed by flow cytometry. Accordingly, cells were harvested using 0,05% trypsin/EDTA, washed with FACS buffer (PBS containing 2% FCS and 0,1% sodium azide) and then at a concentration of 2 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml. Resuspended in FACS buffer. 100 μl of cell suspension was incubated for 30 min at 4° C. with appropriate antibody at the indicated concentrations. CLDN6 and CLDN9 expression was detected using ChimAB 5F2D2. Commercially available mouse anti-cludin antibodies, anti-CLDN3 (R&D, MAB4620) and anti-CLDN4 (R&D, MAB4219) were used as positive controls and human IgG1-kappa (Sigma, I5154) was used as negative control. Cells were washed 3 times with FACS buffer and APC-conjugated goat anti-human IgG Fc-gamma (Dianova, 109-136-170) or APC-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+ at 4° C. for 30 minutes, respectively. 2a+2b+3a (Dianova, 115-135-164) specific secondary antibodies were incubated. Cells were washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Binding was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray.

CDC

As described in Section c of Example 7, complement-dependent cytotoxicity by measuring the content of intracellular ATP in undissolved cells after adding human complement to target cells cultured with anti-CLDN6 antibody cytotoxicity (CDC)) was measured.

ADCC

Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) was measured by measuring the intracellular ATP content in undissolved cells after adding human PBMC to target cells cultured with anti-CLDN6 antibody. For the measurement of ATP, a bioluminescence reaction of luciferase was used as a very sensitive analytical technique.

For this analysis, NEC-8 wild type cells (CLDN6 positive) and NEC-8 CLDN6 knockdown cells (CLDN6 negative) stably transduced with luciferase RNA were used for both, while OV90 cells were IVT encoding luciferase. -Transfected temporarily using RNA. Cells were harvested using 0.05% trypsin/EDTA and 2 x 10 ⁵ cells/ml (NEC-8 wild type and CLDN6 knockdown) or 1 x 10 ⁶ cells/ in each growth medium additionally containing 20 mM Hepes. Adjusted to the concentration of ml (OV90). Each 1×10 ⁴ or 5×10 ⁴ cells were seeded into a white 96-well PP-plate and incubated at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ .

PBMCs were separated from human donor blood samples by density gradient centrifugation using Piccol Highpark (GE Healthcare, 17144003). The intermediate phase containing PBMC was separated, and the cells were washed twice using PBS/EDTA (2 mM). 1×10 ⁸ PBMCs were inoculated in 50 ml of X-Vivo 15 medium (Lonza, BE04-418Q) containing 5% human serum (serum pool from 6 healthy donors), at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ Incubated for 2 hours.

Four hours after inoculation of target cells, 25 μl of monoclonal chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody in PBS was added to cells at the indicated concentrations. Harvest non-adhesive PBMCs isolated from adherent mononuclear cells within 2 hours incubation, and 1.6 x 10 ⁷ cells/ml (for NEC-8 wild type or CLDN6 knockdown experiment) or 4 x 10 ⁷ cells/ml in X-vivo 15 medium (For OV90 experiment). 25 μl of this cell suspension was added to target cells and monoclonal chimeric anti-CLDN6 antibody. Plates were incubated at 37° C. and 5% CO ₂ for 24 hours.

After 24 hours of incubation, 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS per well was added to the total lysis control, while 10 μl of PBS per well was added to the maximum viable cells control And to the actual sample. 50 μl of the luciferin mixture per well (3.84 mg/ml D-luciferin, 0.64 U/ml ATPase and 160 mM HEPES) in ddH ₂ O was added. Plates were incubated for 30 minutes at dark RT. Bioluminescence was measured using a luminometer (Infinite M200, TECAN). Results are expressed as integrated digital relative light units (RLU) values.

The specific lysis is calculated as follows:

최대 생존 세포(max viable cells): 항체 없이 PBS 10 ㎕

Max viable cells : 10 μl PBS without antibody

Total lysis : 10 μl of 8% (v/v) Triton X-100 in PBS without antibody

Advanced treatment

For antibody treatment of advanced xenograft tumors, 2 x 10 ⁷ NEC8 cells in 200 μl of RPMI medium (Gibco) were inoculated subcutaneously into the flanks of 6-8 week old magnetic athymic nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Tumor volume (TV = (length x width ² )/2) was monitored once every two weeks. The TV was expressed in mm ³ , which allows for the curve structure of tumor growth over time. After 17 days of tumor cell inoculation, mice were sorted into treatment groups consisting of 8 animals per cohort with a uniform tumor size greater than 80 mm ³ . Purified chimeric monoclonal antibodies were applied in alternating intravenous and intraperitoneal administration twice a week for 5 weeks. The experimental group and non-specific antibody treated with PBS were used as a negative control. Mice were sacrificed when tumor size exceeded 1500 mm ³ .

Metastasis assay

NEC8 cells were harvested for metastasis analysis and filtered through a 70 μm cell filter to exclude large cell aggregates. 4 x 10 ⁶ NEC8 cells were injected into the tail vein of 6-week-old female athymic Nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Three days after cell injection, PBS was alternately applied by intravenous and intraperitoneal injection twice a week without 200 μg of pure murine monoclonal antibody or antibody in PBS. After 8 weeks mice were sacrificed and lungs were removed and immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen.

Genomic DNA was isolated from frozen tissue according to the instructions in "Blood & Cell Culture DNA Midi Kit" (Qiagen, 13343). Lung tissue was homogenized using Ultra Torax T8.10 (IKA-Werke). To prevent contamination by human genomic DNA, quantitative PCR (qPCR) of genomic lung DNA was performed under sterile conditions. To evaluate the tumor load of human NEC8 cells in murine lung tissue samples, a standard curve was prepared using a predetermined amount of human NEC8 genomic DNA and mouse lung genomic DNA. For this, the following dilution series were used (NEC8 DNA / mouse lung DNA): 200/0, 40/160, 8/192, 1,6/198,4, 0,32/199,68, 0,064/199 ,94, 0,013/200 and 0/200 ng. For qPCR, 200 ng genomic DNA in total 50 μl volume, 2×SYBR Green (Qiagen, 204145), 16 nmol sense primer (GGGATAATTTCAGCTGACTAAACAG, Eurofins) and 16 nmol antisense primer (TTCCGTTTAGTTAGGTGCAGTTATC, Eurofins), 7300 Real Time PCR- System (Applied Biosystems). As a negative control, water was used instead of DNA. QPCR was performed under the following conditions: 15 minutes at 95°C (1 reps), 30 seconds at 95°C / 30 seconds at 62°C / 30 seconds at 72°C (40 reps), 15 seconds at 95°C / 30 at 60°C Seconds / 15 seconds at 95°C (1 reps). All qPCR reactions were performed three times. The tumor load of each lung tissue sample was quantified by correlating with a standard curve using 7300 System software (Applied Biosystems).

High resolution epitope mapping

To analyze the interaction between the antibodies of the invention and the native sequence of CLDN6, we used a position-directed mutation in mammalian cell culture as an epitope-mapping technique. To this end, we performed alanine scanning mutagenesis of amino acids 27-81 and 137-161 in the first and second extracellular domains of CLDN6, respectively. Alanine mutations were generated by site-directed mutagenesis (GENEART AG, Germany). After transient expression in HEK293T cells, CLDN6 mutants were evaluated for their ability to be bound by their specific monoclonal antibodies. If the binding of a specific monoclonal antibody to the CLDN6 mutant is impaired, this suggests that the mutated amino acid is an important contact and/or sequence related residue. Binding was analyzed by flow cytometry. To differentiate between the transfected cell population and the non-transfected cell population, the cells were co-transfected using a fluorescent marker as a reporter.

After 24 hours of transfection, cells were harvested using 0,05% trypsin/EDTA, washed with FACS buffer (PBS containing 2% FCS and 0,1% sodium azide) and then 2 x 10 ⁶ cells/ml. It was resuspended in FACS buffer at the concentration of. 100 μl of cell suspension was incubated with 10 μg/ml antibody at 4° C. for 30 minutes. Cell-surface expression of the CLDN6 mutant line was detected using a commercially available mouse anti-Cldn6 (R&D, MAB3656) as a control. Cells were washed 3 times with FACS buffer and APC-conjugated goat anti-human IgG Fc-gamma (Dianova, 109-136-170) or APC-conjugated anti-mouse IgG 1+2a+2b+3a specific Incubated with secondary antibody (Dianova, 115-135-164) at 4° C. for 30 minutes. Cells were washed twice and resuspended in FACS buffer. Binding within the transfected cell population was analyzed by flow cytometry using BD FACSArray. To this end, the expression of the fluorescent marker for antibody binding on the vertical axis was plotted on the horizontal axis. The average signal intensity of the monoclonal chimeric CLDN6 specific antibody bound to the mutant CDLN6 is expressed as a percentage for wild type binding. Amino acids essential for binding did not show binding after mutation, whereas amino acids that assisted binding showed clearly reduced binding compared to wild type.

Immunohistochemistry

Immediately after sectioning, frozen tissue sections (4 μm) were fixed using acetone for 10 min at −20° C. The sections were then dried at room temperature for 10 minutes and stored at -80 °C. Sections were thawed (10 min at room temperature) prior to use and rehydrated in PBS for 5 min. Endogenous peroxidase activity was blocked for 15 minutes using 0.3% hydrogen peroxide in PBS at room temperature. To avoid non-specific binding, slides were blocked with 10% goat antibody in PBS for 30 minutes at room temperature. The slides were then incubated overnight at 4° C. with CLDN6-specific murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 64A (0.2 μg/ml, diluted in 10% goat serum/PBS). The next day, slides were washed with PBS at room temperature (3 x 5 min) and incubated for 1 hour at room temperature with 100 μl of secondary antibody (PowerVision poly HRP-anti-mouse IgG ready-to-use (ImmunoLogic)). The slides were then washed with PBS at room temperature (3 x 5 minutes). The final staining was performed for 1 minute 30 seconds using VECTOR NovaRED Substrate Kit SK-4800 from Vector Laboratories (Burlingame). Sections were counter stained for 90 seconds using hematoxylin at room temperature. After dehydration with grade alcohol (70%, 80%, 2 x 96% and 99%, 5 minutes each), incubated for 10 minutes in Xylol and mounted on a slide with an X-tra Kit (Medite Histotechnic).

To use the chimeric monoclonal antibodies mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG against human tissue, they were labeled with FITC (Squarix GmbH, Germany). Frozen sections were prepared and treated as described above with regard to fixation, blocking of endogenous peroxidase and blocking of non-specific binding sites. The slides were then incubated with the antibodies mAb206-LCC-FITC and mAb206-SUBG-FITC (1 μg/ml in 10% goat serum/PBS) for 1 hour in the dark at room temperature. Slides were then washed with PBS at room temperature (3 x 5 min) and incubated with 200 μl of rabbit anti-FITC-HRP antibody (AbD Serotec, 1:300 dilution in 10% goat serum/PBS) for 30 min at room temperature. . After washing with PBS at room temperature (3 x 5 minutes), the substrate reaction was performed for 2 minutes 30 seconds using VECTOR NovaRED Substrate Kit SK-4800 from Vector Laboratories (Burlingame). Counter staining, dehydration and mounting were performed as described above.

As a result of analyzing the binding specificity of the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibody using HEK293T cells transiently transfected with human CLDN6, 3, 4 and 9 by flow cytometry, chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206 -SUBG and mAb206-SUBS were shown to bind to CLDN6 without reacting with CLDN3, 4 and 9, respectively (Figure 27).

With respect to binding to human CLDN6 stably expressed on the HEK293 cell surface, the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS similarly exhibited low EC50 values and low concentrations. At, binding saturation was achieved (FIG. 28).

The binding affinity of the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS to tumor cells implicitly expressing human CLDN6 was determined by flow cytometry against the testicular carcinoma cell line NEC8. Evaluation was made by analyzing binding. Compared to the CLDN6-specific antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS, the light chain combination variant mAb206-LCC showed a 3-fold stronger binding affinity for NEC8 cells. In all cases binding saturation was achieved at low concentrations (Figure 29).

The binding affinity of the anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS to the human ovarian cancer cell line OV90 was analyzed by flow cytometry, resulting in similar CLDN6-specific antibodies. It was found that the low EC50 value was shown. The light chain combination variant mAb206-LCC showed the strongest binding to OV90 cells (FIG. 30 ).

Anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies against NEC-8 cells, chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG showed CDC activity in a dose-dependent manner, whereas of these antibodies against NEC-8 CLDN6 knockdown cells None of them induced nonspecific cell lysis. This result demonstrates the target specific effector function of chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG (FIG. 31A).

The antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS showed CDC activity in a dose-dependent manner on NEC8 cells. The amino acid substitution variants mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS compared to chimAB 64A showed similar CDC activity against NEC8 cells (FIG. 31B ).

The anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS showed dose dependent ADCC activity and induced ADCC even at low concentrations in NEC8 and OV90 tumor cell lines (FIG. 32A ).

Figure 32B depicts antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity of anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG against NEC8 wild-type and NEC8 knockdown cells. Stable CLDN6 knockdown NEC8 cells were used to demonstrate target specificity.

From the advanced treatment xenograft model using mice transplanted with the tumor cell line NEC8, it can be seen that the CLDN6 specific antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS better inhibit tumor growth compared to the antibody control (FIG. 33).

The growth curve in FIG. 34A demonstrates that anti-CLDN6 chimeric monoclonal antibodies mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS can inhibit tumor growth. The survival plot in FIG. 34B shows that mice treated with CLDN6 specific antibody survived longer.

High resolution epitope-mapping of chimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS is important for the interaction of amino acids F35, G37 and S39 of the first extracellular domain of CLDN6 and potentially T33 with CLDN6 specific chimeric antibodies Prove it. ChimAB 64A, mAb206-LCC, mAb206-SUBG and mAb206-SUBS showed the same binding pattern (Figure 35).

To test the therapeutic effect of the anti-CLDN6 murine monoclonal antibody muMAB 64A in a metastatic xenograft model, NEC8 cells were injected into the tail vein of athymic Nude- Foxn1 ^nu mice. Three days after transplantation, mice were treated with CLDN6 specific antibody muMAB 64A. After 8 weeks, the lungs were removed and the tumor total was analyzed by PCR. The murine monoclonal anti-CLDN6 antibody MuMAB 64A clearly inhibited tumor growth compared to the PBS control (FIG. 36).

As a result of immunohistochemical staining of human cancer and normal tissues using the monoclonal antibodies muMAB 64A, mAb206-LCC and mAb206-SUBG, strong and homogeneous staining was observed in tissue sections from ovarian cancer and testicular cancer compared to normal tissue. Very strong membrane staining of the population of malignant epithelial cells was detected, while adjacent interstitial and non-malignant epithelial cells were not stained (FIG. 37 ). These results clearly show that the CLDN6-specific antibody of the present invention specifically binds malignant cells derived from tumor patients (description: the number of tissues stained by the antibody / the number of tissues analyzed).

Additional sheet for biological material

Proof of further deposit:

1) Name and address of depository for deposit:

DSMZ-Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH (DSMZ-Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH)

Germany

38124 Brown Shag

Inhoffenstrasse 7 B

Deposit date Accession number The markings below relate to the deposited microorganisms described on the corresponding page of the PCT International Publication. June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3068 Page 13, lines 13-14 June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3069 Page 13, lines 15-16 June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3070 Page 13, lines 17-18 June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3071 Page 13, lines 19-20 June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3072 Page 13, lines 21-22 June 21, 2010 DSM ACC3073 Page 13, lines 23-24 August 31, 2010 DSM ACC3089 Page 13, lines 25-26 August 31, 2010 DSM ACC3090 Page 13, lines 27-28

Additional information on the above mentioned deposits: -Mouse (Mus musculus) fused with splenocytes (Mus musculus) Myeloma P3X63Ag8.653-Hybridoma secreting antibodies to human CLDN6

2) Depositor:

All deposits mentioned above are made by the following depositors:

Ganymed Pharmachemicals Age

Germany

55131 Mainz

Priory Hirstrastrasse 12

Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3067 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3068 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3069 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3070 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3071 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3072 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3073 20100621 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3089 20100831 Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH DSMACC3090 20100831

SEQUENCE LISTING <110> Ganymed Pharmaceuticals AG et al. <120> Antibodies for treatment of cancer <130> 342-64 PCT <150> EP 11 004 004.5 <151> 2011-05-13 <150> US 61/486,071 <151> 2011-05-13 <160> 57 <170> PatentIn version 3.5 <210> 1 <211> 1369 <212> DNA <213> Homo sapiens <400> 1 cgacactcgg cctaggaatt tcccttatct ccttcgcagt gcagctcctt caacctcgcc 60 atggcctctg ccggaatgca gatcctggga gtcgtcctga cactgctggg ctgggtgaat 120 ggcctggtct cctgtgccct gcccatgtgg aaggtgaccg ctttcatcgg caacagcatc 180 gtggtggccc aggtggtgtg ggagggcctg tggatgtcct gcgtggtgca gagcaccggc 240 cagatgcagt gcaaggtgta cgactcactg ctggcgctgc cacaggacct gcaggctgca 300 cgtgccctct gtgtcatcgc cctccttgtg gccctgttcg gcttgctggt ctaccttgct 360 ggggccaagt gtaccacctg tgtggaggag aaggattcca aggcccgcct ggtgctcacc 420 tctgggattg tctttgtcat ctcaggggtc ctgacgctaa tccccgtgtg ctggacggcg 480 catgccatca tccgggactt ctataacccc ctggtggctg aggcccaaaa gcgggagctg 540 ggggcctccc tctacttggg ctgggcggcc tcaggccttt tgttgctggg tggggggttg 600 ctgtgctgca cttgcccctc gggggggtcc cagggcccca gccattacat ggcccgctac 660 tcaacatctg cccctgccat ctctcggggg ccctctgagt accctaccaa gaattacgtc 720 tgacgtggag gggaatgggg gctccgctgg cgctagagcc atccagaagt ggcagtgccc 780 aacagctttg ggatgggttc gtaccttttg tttctgcctc ctgctatttt tcttttgact 840 gaggatattt aaaattcatt tgaaaactga gccaaggtgt tgactcagac tctcacttag 900 gctctgctgt ttctcaccct tggatgatgg agccaaagag gggatgcttt gagattctgg 960 atcttgacat gcccatctta gaagccagtc aagctatgga actaatgcgg aggctgcttg 1020 ctgtgctggc tttgcaacaa gacagactgt ccccaagagt tcctgctgct gctgggggct 1080 gggcttccct agatgtcact ggacagctgc cccccatcct actcaggtct ctggagctcc 1140 tctcttcacc cctggaaaaa caaatgatct gttaacaaag gactgcccac ctccggaact 1200 tctgacctct gtttcctccg tcctgataag acgtccaccc cccagggcca ggtcccagct 1260 atgtagaccc ccgcccccac ctccaacact gcacccttct gccctgcccc cctcgtctca 1320 ccccctttac actcacattt ttatcaaata aagcatgttt tgttagtgc 1369 <210> 2 <211> 220 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 2 Met Ala Ser Ala Gly Met Gln Ile Leu Gly Val Val Leu Thr Leu Leu 1 5 10 15 Gly Trp Val Asn Gly Leu Val Ser Cys Ala Leu Pro Met Trp Lys Val 20 25 30 Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala Gln Val Val Trp Glu 35 40 45 Gly Leu Trp Met Ser Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys 50 55 60 Lys Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala 65 70 75 80 Arg Ala Leu Cys Val Ile Ala Leu Leu Val Ala Leu Phe Gly Leu Leu 85 90 95 Val Tyr Leu Ala Gly Ala Lys Cys Thr Thr Cys Val Glu Glu Lys Asp 100 105 110 Ser Lys Ala Arg Leu Val Leu Thr Ser Gly Ile Val Phe Val Ile Ser 115 120 125 Gly Val Leu Thr Leu Ile Pro Val Cys Trp Thr Ala His Ala Ile Ile 130 135 140 Arg Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu Val Ala Glu Ala Gln Lys Arg Glu Leu 145 150 155 160 Gly Ala Ser Leu Tyr Leu Gly Trp Ala Ala Ser Gly Leu Leu Leu Leu 165 170 175 Gly Gly Gly Leu Leu Cys Cys Thr Cys Pro Ser Gly Gly Ser Gln Gly 180 185 190 Pro Ser His Tyr Met Ala Arg Tyr Ser Thr Ser Ala Pro Ala Ile Ser 195 200 205 Arg Gly Pro Ser Glu Tyr Pro Thr Lys Asn Tyr Val 210 215 220 <210> 3 <211> 805 <212> DNA <213> Artificial <220> <223> codon-optimized nucleic acid sequence encoding human claudin 6 <400> 3 caagcgcgtc aattaaccct cactaaaggg aacaaaagct gttaattaac taaggtacca 60 agcttgccac catggccagc gccggcatgc agatcctggg agtggtgctg accctgctgg 120 gctgggtgaa cggcctggtg tcctgcgccc tgcccatgtg gaaagtgacc gccttcatcg 180 gcaacagcat cgtggtggcc caggtcgtgt gggagggcct gtggatgagc tgtgtggtgc 240 agagcaccgg ccagatgcag tgcaaggtgt acgacagcct gctggccctg cctcaggatc 300 tgcaggccgc cagagccctg tgtgtgatcg ccctgctggt cgccctgttc ggcctgctgg 360 tgtacctcgc tggcgccaag tgcaccacct gtgtggagga aaaggacagc aaggcccggc 420 tggtcctgac aagcggcatc gtgttcgtga tcagcggcgt gctgacactg atccccgtgt 480 gctggaccgc ccacgccatc atccgggact tctacaaccc tctggtggcc gaggcccaga 540 agagagagct gggcgccagc ctgtatctgg gatgggccgc ctcaggactg ctgctgctgg 600 gcggaggcct gctgtgctgt acatgtccta gcggcggctc ccagggccct agccactaca 660 tggcccggta cagcaccagc gcccctgcca tcagcagagg ccccagcgag taccccacca 720 agaactacgt gtgataggaa ttcgagctct tatggcgcgc ccaattcgcc ctatagtgag 780 tcgtattacg tcgcgctcac tggcc 805 <210> 4 <211> 165 <212> DNA <213> Artificial <220> <223> codon-optimized nucleic acid sequence encoding the predicted extracellular loop 2 (EC2) of human claudin 6 <400> 4 ggcgcgccaa ggtaccaagc ttgccaccat ggaaaccgac accctgctgc tgtgggtgct 60 gctcctgtgg gtcccaggct ctacaggcga cgccgcccag cccagagact tctacaaccc 120 cctggtggcc gaggcccaga agctcgagtc tagagggtta attaa 165 <210> 5 <211> 38 <212> PRT <213> Artificial <220> <223> predicted 2nd extracellular loop of human claudin 6 containing an Ig kappa leader sequence <220> <221> SIGNAL <222> (1)..(21) <223> Ig kappa leader sequence <220> <221> DOMAIN <222> (26)..(38) <223> predicted 2nd extracellular loop (EC2) of human claudin 6 <400> 5 Met Glu Thr Asp Thr Leu Leu Leu Trp Val Leu Leu Leu Trp Val Pro 1 5 10 15 Gly Ser Thr Gly Asp Ala Ala Gln Pro Arg Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu 20 25 30 Val Ala Glu Ala Gln Lys 35 <210> 6 <211> 13 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 6 Arg Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu Val Ala Glu Ala Gln Lys 1 5 10 <210> 7 <211> 53 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 7 Pro Met Trp Lys Val Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala 1 5 10 15 Gln Val Val Trp Glu Gly Leu Trp Met Ser Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr 20 25 30 Gly Gln Met Gln Cys Lys Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln 35 40 45 Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala 50 <210> 8 <211> 220 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <220> <221> VARIANT <222> (143)..(143) <223> human claudin 6 I143V polymorphism <400> 8 Met Ala Ser Ala Gly Met Gln Ile Leu Gly Val Val Leu Thr Leu Leu 1 5 10 15 Gly Trp Val Asn Gly Leu Val Ser Cys Ala Leu Pro Met Trp Lys Val 20 25 30 Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala Gln Val Val Trp Glu 35 40 45 Gly Leu Trp Met Ser Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys 50 55 60 Lys Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala 65 70 75 80 Arg Ala Leu Cys Val Ile Ala Leu Leu Val Ala Leu Phe Gly Leu Leu 85 90 95 Val Tyr Leu Ala Gly Ala Lys Cys Thr Thr Cys Val Glu Glu Lys Asp 100 105 110 Ser Lys Ala Arg Leu Val Leu Thr Ser Gly Ile Val Phe Val Ile Ser 115 120 125 Gly Val Leu Thr Leu Ile Pro Val Cys Trp Thr Ala His Ala Val Ile 130 135 140 Arg Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu Val Ala Glu Ala Gln Lys Arg Glu Leu 145 150 155 160 Gly Ala Ser Leu Tyr Leu Gly Trp Ala Ala Ser Gly Leu Leu Leu Leu 165 170 175 Gly Gly Gly Leu Leu Cys Cys Thr Cys Pro Ser Gly Gly Ser Gln Gly 180 185 190 Pro Ser His Tyr Met Ala Arg Tyr Ser Thr Ser Ala Pro Ala Ile Ser 195 200 205 Arg Gly Pro Ser Glu Tyr Pro Thr Lys Asn Tyr Val 210 215 220 <210> 9 <211> 217 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 9 Met Ala Ser Thr Gly Leu Glu Leu Leu Gly Met Thr Leu Ala Val Leu 1 5 10 15 Gly Trp Leu Gly Thr Leu Val Ser Cys Ala Leu Pro Leu Trp Lys Val 20 25 30 Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala Gln Val Val Trp Glu 35 40 45 Gly Leu Trp Met Ser Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys 50 55 60 Lys Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala 65 70 75 80 Arg Ala Leu Cys Val Ile Ala Leu Leu Leu Ala Leu Leu Gly Leu Leu 85 90 95 Val Ala Ile Thr Gly Ala Gln Cys Thr Thr Cys Val Glu Asp Glu Gly 100 105 110 Ala Lys Ala Arg Ile Val Leu Thr Ala Gly Val Ile Leu Leu Leu Ala 115 120 125 Gly Ile Leu Val Leu Ile Pro Val Cys Trp Thr Ala His Ala Ile Ile 130 135 140 Gln Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu Val Ala Glu Ala Leu Lys Arg Glu Leu 145 150 155 160 Gly Ala Ser Leu Tyr Leu Gly Trp Ala Ala Ala Ala Leu Leu Met Leu 165 170 175 Gly Gly Gly Leu Leu Cys Cys Thr Cys Pro Pro Pro Gln Val Glu Arg 180 185 190 Pro Arg Gly Pro Arg Leu Gly Tyr Ser Ile Pro Ser Arg Ser Gly Ala 195 200 205 Ser Gly Leu Asp Lys Arg Asp Tyr Val 210 215 <210> 10 <211> 209 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 10 Met Ala Ser Met Gly Leu Gln Val Met Gly Ile Ala Leu Ala Val Leu 1 5 10 15 Gly Trp Leu Ala Val Met Leu Cys Cys Ala Leu Pro Met Trp Arg Val 20 25 30 Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Ser Asn Ile Val Thr Ser Gln Thr Ile Trp Glu 35 40 45 Gly Leu Trp Met Asn Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys 50 55 60 Lys Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala 65 70 75 80 Arg Ala Leu Val Ile Ile Ser Ile Ile Val Ala Ala Leu Gly Val Leu 85 90 95 Leu Ser Val Val Gly Gly Lys Cys Thr Asn Cys Leu Glu Asp Glu Ser 100 105 110 Ala Lys Ala Lys Thr Met Ile Val Ala Gly Val Val Phe Leu Leu Ala 115 120 125 Gly Leu Met Val Ile Val Pro Val Ser Trp Thr Ala His Asn Ile Ile 130 135 140 Gln Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Leu Val Ala Ser Gly Gln Lys Arg Glu Met 145 150 155 160 Gly Ala Ser Leu Tyr Val Gly Trp Ala Ala Ser Gly Leu Leu Leu Leu 165 170 175 Gly Gly Gly Leu Leu Cys Cys Asn Cys Pro Pro Arg Thr Asp Lys Pro 180 185 190 Tyr Ser Ala Lys Tyr Ser Ala Ala Arg Ser Ala Ala Ala Ser Asn Tyr 195 200 205 Val <210> 11 <211> 220 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 11 Met Ser Met Gly Leu Glu Ile Thr Gly Thr Ala Leu Ala Val Leu Gly 1 5 10 15 Trp Leu Gly Thr Ile Val Cys Cys Ala Leu Pro Met Trp Arg Val Ser 20 25 30 Ala Phe Ile Gly Ser Asn Ile Ile Thr Ser Gln Asn Ile Trp Glu Gly 35 40 45 Leu Trp Met Asn Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys Lys 50 55 60 Val Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala Arg 65 70 75 80 Ala Leu Ile Val Val Ala Ile Leu Leu Ala Ala Phe Gly Leu Leu Val 85 90 95 Ala Leu Val Gly Ala Gln Cys Thr Asn Cys Val Gln Asp Asp Thr Ala 100 105 110 Lys Ala Lys Ile Thr Ile Val Ala Gly Val Leu Phe Leu Leu Ala Ala 115 120 125 Leu Leu Thr Leu Val Pro Val Ser Trp Ser Ala Asn Thr Ile Ile Arg 130 135 140 Asp Phe Tyr Asn Pro Val Val Pro Glu Ala Gln Lys Arg Glu Met Gly 145 150 155 160 Ala Gly Leu Tyr Val Gly Trp Ala Ala Ala Ala Leu Gln Leu Leu Gly 165 170 175 Gly Ala Leu Leu Cys Cys Ser Cys Pro Pro Arg Glu Lys Lys Tyr Thr 180 185 190 Ala Thr Lys Val Val Tyr Ser Ala Pro Arg Ser Thr Gly Pro Gly Ala 195 200 205 Ser Leu Gly Thr Gly Tyr Asp Arg Lys Asp Tyr Val 210 215 220 <210> 12 <211> 159 <212> DNA <213> Artificial <220> <223> codon-optimized nucleic acid sequence encoding the predicted extracellular loop 1 (EC1) of human claudin 6 <400> 12 cccatgtgga aagtgaccgc cttcatcggc aacagcatcg tggtggccca ggtggtctgg 60 gagggcctgt ggatgagctg cgtggtgcag agcaccggcc agatgcagtg caaggtgtac 120 gacagcctgc tggccctgcc tcaggatctg caggctgct 159 <210> 13 <211> 106 <212> PRT <213> Artificial <220> <223> predicted 1st extracellular loop of human claudin 6 containing an Ig kappa leader sequence <220> <221> Signal <222> (1)..(21) <223> Ig kappa leader sequence <220> <221> Domain <222> (26)..(78) <223> predicted 1st extracellular loop (EC1) of human claudin 6 <400> 13 Met Glu Thr Asp Thr Leu Leu Leu Trp Val Leu Leu Leu Trp Val Pro 1 5 10 15 Gly Ser Thr Gly Asp Ala Ala Gln Pro Pro Met Trp Lys Val Thr Ala 20 25 30 Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala Gln Val Val Trp Glu Gly Leu 35 40 45 Trp Met Ser Cys Val Val Gln Ser Thr Gly Gln Met Gln Cys Lys Val 50 55 60 Tyr Asp Ser Leu Leu Ala Leu Pro Gln Asp Leu Gln Ala Ala Leu Glu 65 70 75 80 Ser Arg Gly Pro Phe Glu Gln Lys Leu Ile Ser Glu Glu Asp Leu Asn 85 90 95 Met His Thr Gly His His His His His His 100 105 <210> 14 <211> 13 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 14 Pro Met Trp Lys Val Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile 1 5 10 <210> 15 <211> 15 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 15 Met Trp Lys Val Thr Ala Phe Ile Gly Asn Ser Ile Val Val Ala 1 5 10 15 <210> 16 <211> 20 <212> DNA <213> Artificial <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 16 tccatgacgt tcctgacgtt 20 <210> 17 <211> 43 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 17 gagaaagctt gccgccacca tgggatggag ctggatcttt ctc 43 <210> 18 <211> 43 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 18 gagagggccc ttggtggagg ctgaagagac tgtgagagtg gtg 43 <210> 19 <211> 43 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 19 gagagggccc ttggtggagg ctgaggagac tgtgagagtg gtg 43 <210> 20 <211> 43 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 20 gagagggccc ttggtggagg ctgaggagac tgtgagagtg gtg 43 <210> 21 <211> 46 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 21 gagaaagctt gccgccacca tgcattttca agtgcagatt ttcagc 46 <210> 22 <211> 33 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 22 cacacgtacg tttgatttcc agcttggtgc ctc 33 <210> 23 <211> 33 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 23 cacacgtacg tttgatttcc agcttggtgc ctc 33 <210> 24 <211> 993 <212> DNA <213> Homo sapiens <400> 24 gcctccacca agggcccaag cgtgttcccc ctggccccca gcagcaagag caccagcggc 60 ggcacagccg ccctgggctg cctggtgaag gactacttcc ccgagcccgt gaccgtgagc 120 tggaacagcg gagccctgac ctccggcgtg cacaccttcc ccgccgtgct gcagagcagc 180 ggcctgtaca gcctgagcag cgtggtgacc gtgcccagca gcagcctggg cacccagacc 240 tacatctgca acgtgaacca caagcccagc aacaccaagg tggacaagag agtggagccc 300 aagagctgcg acaagaccca cacctgcccc ccctgcccag ccccagagct gctgggcgga 360 cccagcgtgt tcctgttccc ccccaagccc aaggacaccc tgatgatcag caggaccccc 420 gaggtgacct gcgtggtggt ggacgtgagc cacgaggacc cagaggtgaa gttcaactgg 480 tacgtggacg gcgtggaggt gcacaacgcc aagaccaagc ccagagagga gcagtacaac 540 agcacctaca gggtggtgtc cgtgctgacc gtgctgcacc aggactggct gaacggcaag 600 gaatacaagt gcaaggtctc caacaaggcc ctgccagccc ccatcgaaaa gaccatcagc 660 aaggccaagg gccagccacg ggagccccag gtgtacaccc tgccccccag ccgggaggag 720 atgaccaaga accaggtgtc cctgacctgt ctggtgaagg gcttctaccc cagcgacatc 780 gccgtggagt gggagagcaa cggccagccc gagaacaact acaagaccac ccccccagtg 840 ctggacagcg acggcagctt cttcctgtac agcaagctga ccgtggacaa gtccaggtgg 900 cagcagggca acgtgttcag ctgcagcgtg atgcacgagg ccctgcacaa ccactacacc 960 cagaagtccc tgagcctgag ccccggcaag tag 993 <210> 25 <211> 330 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 25 Ala Ser Thr Lys Gly Pro Ser Val Phe Pro Leu Ala Pro Ser Ser Lys 1 5 10 15 Ser Thr Ser Gly Gly Thr Ala Ala Leu Gly Cys Leu Val Lys Asp Tyr 20 25 30 Phe Pro Glu Pro Val Thr Val Ser Trp Asn Ser Gly Ala Leu Thr Ser 35 40 45 Gly Val His Thr Phe Pro Ala Val Leu Gln Ser Ser Gly Leu Tyr Ser 50 55 60 Leu Ser Ser Val Val Thr Val Pro Ser Ser Ser Leu Gly Thr Gln Thr 65 70 75 80 Tyr Ile Cys Asn Val Asn His Lys Pro Ser Asn Thr Lys Val Asp Lys 85 90 95 Arg Val Glu Pro Lys Ser Cys Asp Lys Thr His Thr Cys Pro Pro Cys 100 105 110 Pro Ala Pro Glu Leu Leu Gly Gly Pro Ser Val Phe Leu Phe Pro Pro 115 120 125 Lys Pro Lys Asp Thr Leu Met Ile Ser Arg Thr Pro Glu Val Thr Cys 130 135 140 Val Val Val Asp Val Ser His Glu Asp Pro Glu Val Lys Phe Asn Trp 145 150 155 160 Tyr Val Asp Gly Val Glu Val His Asn Ala Lys Thr Lys Pro Arg Glu 165 170 175 Glu Gln Tyr Asn Ser Thr Tyr Arg Val Val Ser Val Leu Thr Val Leu 180 185 190 His Gln Asp Trp Leu Asn Gly Lys Glu Tyr Lys Cys Lys Val Ser Asn 195 200 205 Lys Ala Leu Pro Ala Pro Ile Glu Lys Thr Ile Ser Lys Ala Lys Gly 210 215 220 Gln Pro Arg Glu Pro Gln Val Tyr Thr Leu Pro Pro Ser Arg Glu Glu 225 230 235 240 Met Thr Lys Asn Gln Val Ser Leu Thr Cys Leu Val Lys Gly Phe Tyr 245 250 255 Pro Ser Asp Ile Ala Val Glu Trp Glu Ser Asn Gly Gln Pro Glu Asn 260 265 270 Asn Tyr Lys Thr Thr Pro Pro Val Leu Asp Ser Asp Gly Ser Phe Phe 275 280 285 Leu Tyr Ser Lys Leu Thr Val Asp Lys Ser Arg Trp Gln Gln Gly Asn 290 295 300 Val Phe Ser Cys Ser Val Met His Glu Ala Leu His Asn His Tyr Thr 305 310 315 320 Gln Lys Ser Leu Ser Leu Ser Pro Gly Lys 325 330 <210> 26 <211> 324 <212> DNA <213> Homo sapiens <400> 26 cgtacggtgg ccgctcccag cgtgttcatc ttccccccca gcgacgagca gctgaagtcc 60 ggcaccgcca gcgtggtgtg cctgctgaac aacttctacc cccgggaggc caaggtgcag 120 tggaaggtgg acaacgccct gcagagcggc aacagccagg agagcgtcac cgagcaggac 180 agcaaggact ccacctacag cctgagcagc accctgaccc tgagcaaggc cgactacgag 240 aagcacaagg tgtacgcctg cgaggtgacc caccagggcc tgtccagccc cgtgaccaag 300 agcttcaaca ggggcgagtg ctag 324 <210> 27 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Homo sapiens <400> 27 Arg Thr Val Ala Ala Pro Ser Val Phe Ile Phe Pro Pro Ser Asp Glu 1 5 10 15 Gln Leu Lys Ser Gly Thr Ala Ser Val Val Cys Leu Leu Asn Asn Phe 20 25 30 Tyr Pro Arg Glu Ala Lys Val Gln Trp Lys Val Asp Asn Ala Leu Gln 35 40 45 Ser Gly Asn Ser Gln Glu Ser Val Thr Glu Gln Asp Ser Lys Asp Ser 50 55 60 Thr Tyr Ser Leu Ser Ser Thr Leu Thr Leu Ser Lys Ala Asp Tyr Glu 65 70 75 80 Lys His Lys Val Tyr Ala Cys Glu Val Thr His Gln Gly Leu Ser Ser 85 90 95 Pro Val Thr Lys Ser Phe Asn Arg Gly Glu Cys 100 105 <210> 28 <211> 32 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <220> <221> misc_feature <222> (31)..(32) <223> any nucleotide <400> 28 tttttttttt tttttttttt tttttttttt nn 32 <210> 29 <211> 30 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 29 aagcagtggt atcaacgcag agtacgcggg 30 <210> 30 <211> 26 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 30 ctgctcactg gatggtggga agatgg 26 <210> 31 <211> 25 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 31 acaggggcca gtggatagac cgatg 25 <210> 32 <211> 45 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 32 gtaatacgac tcactatagg gcaagcagtg gtatcaacgc agagt 45 <210> 33 <211> 22 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 33 gtaatacgac tcactatagg gc 22 <210> 34 <211> 117 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH sequence <400> 34 Glu Val Gln Leu Gln Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Val Lys Pro Gly Ala 1 5 10 15 Ser Met Lys Ile Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Ser Phe Thr Gly Tyr 20 25 30 Thr Met Asn Trp Val Lys Gln Ser His Gly Lys Asn Leu Glu Trp Ile 35 40 45 Gly Leu Ile Asn Pro Tyr Asn Gly Gly Thr Ser Tyr Asn Gln Lys Phe 50 55 60 Lys Gly Lys Ala Thr Leu Thr Ile Asp Lys Ser Ser Ser Thr Ala Tyr 65 70 75 80 Met Glu Leu Leu Ser Leu Thr Ser Glu Asp Ser Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys 85 90 95 Ala Arg Asp Tyr Gly Tyr Val Leu Asp Tyr Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Thr 100 105 110 Leu Thr Val Ser Ser 115 <210> 35 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL sequence <400> 35 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ala Ile Met Ser Ala Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Ser Tyr Leu 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Trp Val Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Pro Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Gly Gly Ser 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Met Glu Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Ser Ile Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 36 <211> 117 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH sequence <400> 36 Glu Val Gln Leu Gln Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Val Lys Pro Gly Ala 1 5 10 15 Ser Met Lys Ile Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Ser Phe Thr Gly Tyr 20 25 30 Thr Met Asn Trp Val Lys Gln Ser His Gly Lys Asn Leu Glu Trp Ile 35 40 45 Gly Leu Ile Asn Pro Tyr Asn Gly Gly Thr Ile Tyr Asn Gln Lys Phe 50 55 60 Lys Gly Lys Ala Thr Leu Thr Val Asp Lys Ser Ser Ser Thr Ala Tyr 65 70 75 80 Met Glu Leu Leu Ser Leu Thr Ser Glu Asp Ser Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys 85 90 95 Ala Arg Asp Tyr Gly Phe Val Leu Asp Tyr Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Thr 100 105 110 Leu Thr Val Ser Ser 115 <210> 37 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL sequence <400> 37 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ile Met Ser Val Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Ser Tyr Met 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Cys Ile Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Ala Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Ser Gly Arg 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Val Ala Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Ser Asn Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 38 <211> 117 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH sequence <400> 38 Glu Val Gln Leu Gln Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Val Lys Pro Gly Ala 1 5 10 15 Ser Met Lys Ile Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Ser Phe Thr Gly Tyr 20 25 30 Thr Met Asn Trp Val Lys Gln Ser His Gly Lys Asn Leu Glu Trp Ile 35 40 45 Gly Leu Ile Asn Pro Tyr Asn Gly Gly Ile Ile Tyr Asn Gln Lys Phe 50 55 60 Lys Gly Lys Ala Thr Leu Thr Val Asp Lys Ser Ser Ser Thr Ala Tyr 65 70 75 80 Met Glu Leu Leu Ser Leu Thr Ser Glu Asp Ser Ala Val Phe Tyr Cys 85 90 95 Ala Arg Asp Phe Gly Tyr Val Leu Asp Tyr Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Thr 100 105 110 Leu Thr Val Ser Ser 115 <210> 39 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL sequence <400> 39 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ala Ile Met Ser Ala Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Ser Tyr Met 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Trp Ile Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Ala Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Val Ala Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Ser Thr Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 40 <211> 117 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH sequence <400> 40 Glu Val Gln Leu Gln Gln Ser Arg Pro Glu Leu Val Lys Pro Gly Ala 1 5 10 15 Ser Met Lys Ile Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Ser Phe Thr Gly Tyr 20 25 30 Thr Leu Asn Trp Val Lys Gln Ser His Gly Lys Asn Leu Glu Trp Ile 35 40 45 Gly Leu Ile Asn Pro Tyr Asn Gly Gly Ser Ser Tyr Asn Gln Lys Phe 50 55 60 Lys Asp Lys Ala Thr Leu Thr Val Asp Lys Ser Ser Ser Thr Ala Tyr 65 70 75 80 Met Glu Leu Leu Ser Leu Thr Ser Glu Asp Ser Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys 85 90 95 Ala Arg Asp Tyr Gly Tyr Val Phe Asp Tyr Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Thr 100 105 110 Leu Thr Val Ser Ser 115 <210> 41 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL sequence <400> 41 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ala Ile Met Ser Ala Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Asn Tyr Met 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Leu Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Leu Ile Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Ala Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Ser Gly Arg 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Met Glu Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Asn Asn Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 42 <211> 5 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (1)..(1) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (3)..(3) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (5)..(5) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu <400> 42 Xaa Gly Xaa Val Xaa 1 5 <210> 43 <211> 6 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (2)..(2) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (6)..(6) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu <400> 43 Asp Xaa Gly Xaa Val Xaa 1 5 <210> 44 <211> 6 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (1)..(1) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (3)..(3) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (5)..(5) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu <400> 44 Xaa Gly Xaa Val Xaa Asp 1 5 <210> 45 <211> 7 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (2)..(2) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (6)..(6) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu <400> 45 Asp Xaa Gly Xaa Val Xaa Asp 1 5 <210> 46 <211> 10 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (6)..(6) <223> Any amino acid, preferably an aromatic amino acid, more preferably Phe or Tyr, most preferably Tyr <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (8)..(8) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Leu or Phe, more preferably Leu <400> 46 Ala Arg Asp Xaa Gly Xaa Val Xaa Asp Tyr 1 5 10 <210> 47 <211> 8 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR1 sequence <400> 47 Gly Tyr Ser Phe Thr Gly Tyr Thr 1 5 <210> 48 <211> 8 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VH CDR2 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (8)..(8) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Thr, Ser or Ile, most preferably Thr <400> 48 Ile Asn Pro Tyr Asn Gly Gly Xaa 1 5 <210> 49 <211> 5 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (2)..(2) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (3)..(3) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Tyr, Ser, Ile, Asn or Thr, more preferably Tyr, Ser, or Asn, most preferably Asn <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Tyr, more preferably Tyr <400> 49 Arg Xaa Xaa Xaa Pro 1 5 <210> 50 <211> 7 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (3)..(3) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Tyr, Ser, Ile, Asn or Thr, more preferably Tyr, Ser, or Asn, most preferably Asn <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (5)..(5) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Tyr, more preferably Tyr <400> 50 Gln Arg Xaa Xaa Xaa Pro Pro 1 5 <210> 51 <211> 10 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL CDR3 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (5)..(5) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Tyr, Ser, Ile, Asn or Thr, more preferably Tyr, Ser, or Asn, most preferably Asn <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (6)..(6) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Tyr, more preferably Tyr <400> 51 Gln Gln Arg Xaa Xaa Xaa Pro Pro Trp Thr 1 5 10 <210> 52 <211> 5 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL CDR1 sequence <220> <221> MISC_FEATURE <222> (4)..(4) <223> Any amino acid, preferably Ser or Asn, most preferably Ser <400> 52 Ser Ser Val Xaa Tyr 1 5 <210> 53 <211> 3 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL CDR2 sequence <400> 53 Ser Thr Ser One <210> 54 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL Sequence <400> 54 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ile Met Ser Val Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Ser Tyr Met 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Gly Ile Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Ala Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Ser Gly Arg 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Val Ala Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Ser Asn Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 55 <211> 107 <212> PRT <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Antibody VL Sequence <400> 55 Gln Ile Val Leu Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ile Met Ser Val Ser Pro Gly 1 5 10 15 Glu Lys Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ser Ala Ser Ser Ser Val Ser Tyr Met 20 25 30 His Trp Phe Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Thr Ser Pro Lys Leu Ser Ile Tyr 35 40 45 Ser Thr Ser Asn Leu Ala Ser Gly Val Pro Ala Arg Phe Ser Gly Arg 50 55 60 Gly Ser Gly Thr Ser Tyr Ser Leu Thr Ile Ser Arg Val Ala Ala Glu 65 70 75 80 Asp Ala Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln Arg Ser Asn Tyr Pro Pro Trp 85 90 95 Thr Phe Gly Gly Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu Ile Lys 100 105 <210> 56 <211> 25 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 56 gggataattt cagctgacta aacag 25 <210> 57 <211> 25 <212> DNA <213> Artificial Sequence <220> <223> Oligonucleotide <400> 57 ttccgtttag ttaggtgcag ttatc 25

Claims (29)

(i) a heavy chain comprising a set of heavy chain CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 depicted in SEQ ID NO: 36, and
(ii) a light chain comprising a set of light chain CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 depicted in SEQ ID NOs: 35, 54 or 55
As an anti-CLDN6 antibody comprising,
The heavy and light chains are anti-CLDN6 antibodies covalently linked to each other. According to claim 1,
An anti-CLDN6 antibody capable of binding to CLDN6 attached to the surface of a cell expressing CLDN6, and not substantially capable of binding to CLDN9 attached to the surface of a cell expressing CLDN9. According to claim 1,
An anti-CLDN6 antibody that is substantially unable to bind to CLDN4 attached to the surface of cells expressing CLDN4 and/or substantially unable to bind to CLDN3 attached to the surface of cells expressing CLDN3. According to claim 1,
(i) cell killing activity expressing CLDN6,
(ii) cell proliferation inhibitory activity expressing CLDN6,
(iii) cell colony formation inhibitory activity expressing CLDN6,
(iv) decay-mediated activity of the settled tumor,
(v) activity to inhibit tumor formation or remodeling, and
(vi) Metastasis inhibitory activity of cells expressing CLDN6
Anti-CLDN6 antibody having one or more activities. According to claim 1,
In its natural form, it exhibits one or more immune effector functions against cells that deliver CLDN6, and the one or more immune effector functions are complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody dependent cell mediated toxicity (ADCC), and induction and proliferation of apoptosis. Anti-CLDN6 antibody is selected from the group consisting of inhibition. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 1 which is a monoclonal antibody, chimeric antibody or humanized antibody. A conjugate comprising the anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 1 in combination with a pharmaceutical therapeutic agent. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for treating or preventing a tumor disease. According to claim 1,
The antibody is an anti-CLDN6 antibody selected from the group consisting of single chain Fv (scFv) antibodies, monospecific antibodies, bispecific antibodies and multispecific antibodies. The method of claim 9,
The antibody is an anti-CLDN6 antibody that is bispecific or multispecific, and contains a second binding specificity for effector cells. 10. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 9, wherein said antibody is bispecific or multispecific and comprises a second binding specificity for an Fc receptor or T cell receptor. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 10, wherein the antibody triggers an Fc receptor-mediated effector cell activity selected from phagocytosis, antibody dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC), cytokine excretion, and production of superoxide anions. . The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 10, wherein the second binding specificity is selected from the group consisting of IgG receptor, IgA receptor, CD3, CD16, CD32, CD64 and CD89. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 10, wherein the antibody further comprises a third binding specificity for an enhancement factor. 15. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 14, wherein the third binding specificity binds to cytotoxic T cells or immune cells that increase the immune response. 16. The anti-CLDN6 antibody of claim 15, wherein the third binding specificity is selected from the group consisting of CD2, CD3, CD8, CD28, CD4, CD40 and ICAM-1. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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