CD30: An important new target in hematologic malignancies

Abstract

CD30 is abundantly and selectively expressed on the surface of Hodgkin ReedSternberg cells, anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCLs), and other lymphoid malignancies as well as on several non-lymphoid malignancies including selected germ cell tumors. Expression of CD30 on normal cells is highly restricted, thereby allowing differential targeting of malignant cells. CD30, a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor family has pleiotropic biologic functions, and antibodies targeting CD30 and other TNF family receptors can exhibit both agonistic and antagonistic signaling functions. Recently, antibodydrug conjugates targeting CD30, such as brentuximab vedotin, have shown striking activity in phase I and II trials, with manageable toxicity. This has defined an important emerging role for targeting of CD30 in the setting of Hodgkin lymphoma, ALCL, and possibly other CD30+ malignancies. © 2011 Informa UK, Ltd.