Targeting Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells Through Inhibition of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 4 Pathway with a Novel Antibody.

ABSTRACT:

Background/objectives

The progression and dissemination of CRC are heavily influenced by a subpopulation of tumor cells known as CSCs. This study aimed to identify novel protein membrane antigens expressed by colorectal CSCs and the consequent development of targeted therapies based on monoclonal antibodies directed against the identified antigens.

Methods

Integrated bioinformatics analyses were conducted using proprietary CSC gene expression profiles and public colon gene expression databases, leading to the identification of five plasma membrane proteins enriched in CSCs. Genetic immunization in rats was employed to generate monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting these antigens. FGFR4 was prioritized due to its overexpression in colorectal tumors. Its function was characte

SUBMITTER: Filocamo G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12896886 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature