AntiCD6

Anti-CD6 refers to monoclonal antibodies that target CD6, a receptor on T lymphocytes involved in costimulatory signaling during immune responses. CD6 interacts with ALCAM (CD166) on antigen-presenting cells to promote T-cell activation, adhesion, and migration. By binding CD6, anti-CD6 antibodies aim to dampen these processes, reducing T-cell activation and cytokine production and potentially limiting the trafficking of inflammatory T cells to sites of disease.

The most clinically advanced anti-CD6 antibody is itolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets CD6. Itolizumab has been developed for autoimmune conditions and is marketed in India under the brand name Alzumab for plaque psoriasis, with research pursued in other inflammatory diseases. Development programs have explored its use in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune indications, but regulatory approvals outside India have not been established.

Clinical development of anti-CD6 therapies has shown potential for modulating immune responses in autoimmune diseases, but results across indications have been variable. Findings on efficacy are not yet conclusive, and safety data remain an area of ongoing assessment. Reported adverse effects in trials and clinical use include infusion-related reactions and an increased risk of infections; long-term safety data are limited and continue to be evaluated.

Regulatory status varies by region, and as of now there are no anti-CD6 antibodies broadly approved by major authorities in the United States or the European Union. Research continues to define optimal patient selection, dosing, and risk management to determine where anti-CD6 therapy may be most beneficial.

See also: CD6, ALCAM (CD166), monoclonal antibodies, immunomodulation.