MD Anderson’s 77A Antibody Offers New Hope Against Cancers

Researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have developed a promising new antibody therapy named 77A, which enhances immune responses against various blood cancers and solid tumors. In a preclinical study presented at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting on December 6, 2025, the therapy demonstrated its potential to overcome treatment resistance in conditions like myeloma and lymphoma, as well as in solid tumors.

Led by Jun Wei, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor in the department of Lymphoma & Myeloma, and principal investigator Robert Z. Orlowski, M.D., Ph.D., the study highlighted how 77A targets a specific cancer survival protein known as HSP70. This protein is often overproduced in cancer cells, allowing tumors to evade detection by the immune system and survive longer. By converting HSP70 into a trigger for the immune system, the antibody activates critical immune cells such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, reshaping the tumor environment to support enduring immune responses.

In laboratory models, 77A not only exhibited strong antitumor effects but also significantly enhanced the efficacy of existing treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapies. Its ability to work synergistically with these therapies suggests that 77A could play a crucial role in future cancer treatment regimens.

Wei expressed optimism regarding the findings, stating, “There is tremendous promise in the way 77A is capable of rewiring the immune system, enabling it to respond effectively against multiple cancers. Our findings offer a new pathway to immunotherapy and patient treatment.”

Mechanism and Future Steps of 77A Therapy

The mechanism behind 77A’s effectiveness lies in its targeting of HSP70, a heat shock protein that often contributes to a hostile tumor environment by suppressing immune responses. By blocking the effects of HSP70, the antibody improves the ability of immune cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. Early tests with human immune cells also indicated that 77A could enhance immune responses in healthy donors, paving the way for potential clinical trials.

The research team is now focused on advancing a humanized version of 77A into clinical trials, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness across various cancer types. Orlowski remarked, “These results give us confidence that 77A could become a versatile immunotherapy. Our next step is to advance a humanized version of this antibody into clinical trials to evaluate its potential in patients across multiple cancer types.”

This study received support from Blood Cancer United, formerly known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. As the research progresses, the potential for 77A to emerge as a significant therapeutic option for patients battling cancer becomes increasingly promising. The findings underscore the ongoing efforts to innovate cancer treatments and improve outcomes for individuals afflicted by these challenging diseases.