Preparation and identification of an anti-idiotypic antibody antagonist (FG8) for EGFR that shows potential activity against liver cancer cells.

Abstract

Currently, there are two categories of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antagonists, small molecule antagonists and anti-EGFR antibodies. In the current study, we developed a new EGFR antagonist employing the anti-idiotypic antibodies strategy. First, using EGF as an antigen, through a series of immunological protocols and hybridoma technology, we obtained an anti-idiotypic antibody against EGF receptor-binding epitopes. On this basis, we screened and characterized the anti-idiotype antibodies against EGFR through competitive ELISA, co-localization analysis, competitive receptor binding analysis, and immunofluorescence. Finally, an internal image anti-idiotype antibody called FG8 was successfully prepared. Experiment result shows that FG8 inhibits EGFR-mediated signaling pathways in vitro. Additionally, FG8 inhibits liver tumor cell proliferation as well as induces tumor cell apoptosis. The present study suggests that FG8 is a potential therapeutic agent for liver cancer. In addition, this study provides a novel method for the preparation of EGFR antagonists.