Globo H-targeting antibodies are another strategy currently being evaluated in the cancer therapeutic space. OBI Pharmas OBI-888 is a humanized IgG1 antibody that selectively binds to the Globo H antigen among other Globo series glycosphingolipids such as SSEA-3 and SSEA-4. Additionally, in vivo studies of OBI-888 in various Globo H-positive (GH) xenografts models showed promising tumor growth inhibition results. OBI-888s human Phase I/II study for the treatment of metastatic and locally advanced solid tumors is estimated to finish in December 2022.
Based on OBI-888, the first-in-class antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) 0BI-999 was additionally developed, linking OBI-888 to monomethyl auristatin E, a synthetic antineoplastic agent. The ADC is currently undergoing phase II trial in patients with advanced solid tumors, with an estimated completion date in Dec 2023. In Dec 2019 & Jan 2020, OBI-999 was granted two Orphan Drug Designations by the FDA for the treatment of pancreatic and gastric cancer.