Guanylate cyclase C (GCC) antigen-binding agent compositions and methods of use thereof

Abstract

Antigen-binding agents (e.g., single-domain antibodies) that bind to guanylate cyclase C (GCC) and chimeric antigen receptors comprising a GCC antigen-binding domain are disclosed. Nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, host cells, antigen-binding fragments, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising these antigen-binding agents and fragments thereof are also disclosed. The present invention also provides therapeutic methods utilizing antibodies, and antigen-binding molecules are provided herein.

Description

Technical field

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 123,331, filed December 9, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Sequence list This application contains a Sequence Listing filed electronically in ASCII format, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The ASCII copy created on November 19, 2021 is named MIL-005WO_SL.txt and is 140,478 bytes in size. [Background technology]

[0003] Guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) is a transmembrane cell surface receptor that functions in intestinal fluid maintenance, electrolyte homeostasis and cell proliferation, e.g. Carrithers et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 100:3018 See -3020(2003). GCC is expressed in mucosal cells lining the small intestine, large intestine, and rectum (Carrithers et al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181 (1996)). GCC expression is maintained during neoplastic transformation of intestinal epithelial cells and is associated with expression in all primary and metastatic colorectal tumors (Carrithers et al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181 (1996), Buc et al. al.Eur J Cancer 41:1618-1627(2005), Carrithers et al., Gastroenterology 107:1653-1661(1994)). New and improved methods of targeting GCC are needed. [Summary of the invention]

[0004] Disruption of the GCC signaling pathway has been associated with a number of gastrointestinal disorders, including colorectal cancer. The present invention provides, among other things, novel anti-GCC antigen binding molecules (eg, single domain antibodies (sdAbs)) and chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) comprising anti-GCC antigen binding domains (eg, sdAbs). In addition, the invention provides host cells (eg, T cells) that express CARs and nucleic acid molecules encoding CARs or anti-GCC antigen binding molecules. CAR cells contain anti-GCC CAR molecules expressed on the cell surface. In some embodiments, the CAR exhibits high surface expression on transduced T cells and has high rates of cytolysis and proliferation and persistence of transduced T cells in vivo. Also provided are methods of using the disclosed CARs, host cells, and nucleic acid molecules, eg, to treat cancer in a subject.

[0005] In one aspect, the invention provides an anti-guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) chimeric antigen comprising an extracellular antigen binding domain that binds to guanylyl cyclase C (GCC), a transmembrane domain, and at least one intracellular signaling domain. Provides receptor (CAR).

[0006] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR comprises the complementarity determining region ( CDR) sequence, the complementarity determining region of RYWMS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 9), KIRHDGGEKYYVDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 12) and DYTRDV (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 17) Complementarity determination of heavy chain variable region (VH) with (CDR) sequence, RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIKYDGSEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 13) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18) Complementarity of heavy chain variable region (VH) with region (CDR) sequence, RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYPDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 14) and DYNKDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 19) Complement of heavy chain variable region (VH) or RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 15) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18) with determining region (CDR) sequence It contains an antigen-binding domain that includes a heavy chain variable region (VH) with sex-determining region (CDR) sequences.

[0007] In some embodiments, the antigen binding domain of the anti-GCC CAR comprises a heavy chain variable region (VH) that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 20.

[0008] In some embodiments, the antigen binding domain of the anti-GCC CAR is an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 21, at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 26. an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 27, or at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 28. Contains immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) regions that contain amino acid sequences that are identical.

[0009] In some embodiments, the antigen binding domain of the anti-GCC CAR comprises an anti-GCC antigen binding domain of only an immunoglobulin variable heavy chain.

[0010] In some embodiments, the extracellular anti-GCC antigen binding domain of the anti-GCC CAR is preceded by a leader nucleotide sequence encoding a leader peptide.

[0011] In some embodiments, the leader peptide comprises SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, or SEQ ID NO: 42.

[0012] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR further comprises a hinge domain.

[0013] In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises a CD28 hinge domain.

[0014] In some embodiments, the CD28 hinge domain comprises SEQ ID NO:29.

[0015] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR comprises a hinge domain fused to a transmembrane domain.

[0016] In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain is the alpha, beta or zeta chain of the T cell receptor, CD8, CD28, CD3 epsilon, CD45, CD4, CD5, CD8, CD9, CD16, CD22, CD33, CD37 , CD64, CD80, CD83, CD86, CD134, CD137, CD154, and TNFRSF19, and any combination thereof.

[0017] In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain comprises a CD28 transmembrane domain.

[0018] In some embodiments, the CD28 transmembrane domain comprises SEQ ID NO:30.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one intracellular signaling domain includes a costimulatory domain and a primary signaling domain.

[0020] In some embodiments, the costimulatory domains include OX40, CD70, CD27, CD28, CD5, ICAM-1, LFA-1 (CD11a / CD18), ICOS (CD278), DAP10, DAP12, and 4-1BB (CD137). ), or any combination thereof.

[0021] In some embodiments, the costimulatory domain comprises a functional signaling domain of CD28.

[0022] In some embodiments, the CD28 costimulatory domain comprises SEQ ID NO:32.

[0023] In some embodiments, the primary signaling domain comprises a CD3 zeta signaling domain.

[0024] In some embodiments, the CD3 zeta signaling domain comprises SEQ ID NO:33.

[0025] In one embodiment, the anti-GCC CAR comprises an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 47-52.

[0026] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:47. include. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:48. include. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:49. include. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:50. include. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:51. include. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:52. include.

[0027] In one aspect, the invention provides isolated polynucleotides encoding anti-GCC CARs described herein.

[0028] In some embodiments, the isolated polynucleotide encoding an anti-GCC CAR described herein further comprises an epidermal growth factor receptor (tEGFR) cleavage sequence.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tEGFR comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence that is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% identical to SEQ ID NO:43.

[0030] In some embodiments, tEGFR comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence that is identical to SEQ ID NO:43.

[0031] In some embodiments, an isolated polynucleotide encoding an anti-GCC CAR described herein contains a furin recognition site and a downstream 2A designed for simultaneous bicistronic expression of the tag and CAR sequences. Further comprising a self-cleaving peptide sequence.

[0032] In some embodiments, the 2A self-cleaving peptide is selected from F2A, P2A, E2A and T2A.

[0033] In some embodiments, the 2A self-cleaving peptide is P2A.

[0034] In one aspect, the invention provides a vector comprising an isolated polynucleotide encoding an anti-GCC CAR described herein.

[0035] In some embodiments, the vector is an adenovirus vector, an adenovirus-related vector, a DNA vector, a lentiviral vector, a plasmid, a retroviral vector, or an RNA vector. In some embodiments, the vector is a retroviral vector.

[0036] In one aspect, the invention provides isolated polynucleotide cells encoding an anti-GCC CAR described herein.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cells express an anti-GCC CAR described herein.

[0038] In some embodiments, the cells are T cells, allogeneic T cells, autologous T cells, or tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs).

[0039] In one aspect, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a population of cells that express or are capable of expressing an anti-GCC CAR as described herein. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises a population of cells in which greater than 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of the cells express an anti-GCC CAR.

[0040] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of treating cancer, the method comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a pharmaceutical composition comprising an anti-GCC CAR described herein. .

[0041] In some embodiments, the cancer is gastrointestinal cancer, colorectal cancer, colorectal adenocarcinoma, colorectal leiomyosarcoma, colorectal lymphoma, colorectal melanoma, colorectal neuroendocrine tumor, metastatic colon cancer, gastric cancer , gastric adenocarcinoma, gastric lymphoma, gastric sarcoma, esophageal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, or pancreatic cancer.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cancer is gastrointestinal cancer.

[0043] In some embodiments, the gastrointestinal cancer is colon cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, or esophageal cancer.

[0044] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of reducing tumor growth or tumor size by administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising an anti-GCC CAR described herein.

[0045] In one aspect, the present invention provides the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of HYYWS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 8), RIYPSGSTSYNPSLKS (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 11) and DRSTGWSEWNSDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 16). Provided are guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agents comprising a heavy chain variable region (VH) having a heavy chain variable region (VH).

[0046] In one aspect, the present invention provides the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RYWMS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 9), KIRHDGGEKYYVDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 12) and DYTRDV (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 17). Provided are guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agents comprising a heavy chain variable region (VH) having a heavy chain variable region (VH).

[0047] In one aspect, the present invention provides the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIKYDGSEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 13) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18). Provided are guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agents comprising a heavy chain variable region (VH) having a heavy chain variable region (VH).

[0048] In one aspect, the present invention provides the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYPDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 14) and DYNKDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 19). Provided are guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agents comprising a heavy chain variable region (VH) having a heavy chain variable region (VH).

[0049] In one aspect, the present invention provides the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 15) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18). Provided are guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agents comprising a heavy chain variable region (VH) having a heavy chain variable region (VH).

[0050] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:1 or SEQ ID NO:20.

[0051] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:21.

[0052] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:26.

[0053] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:27.

[0054] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:28.

[0055] In one aspect, the invention provides a guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agent comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 1 or SEQ ID NO: 20. do.

[0056] In one aspect, the invention provides a guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agent comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:21.

[0057] In one aspect, the invention provides a guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agent comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:26.

[0058] In one aspect, the invention provides a guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agent comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:27.

[0059] In one aspect, the invention provides a guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) binding agent comprising an immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:28.

[0060] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises a VH region that includes an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 20, 21, 26, 27, or 28.

[0061] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent comprises a VH region that includes an amino acid sequence that is identical to any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 20, 21, 26, 27, or 28.

[0062] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent is an IgA antibody, IgG antibody, IgE antibody, IgM antibody, bi- or multispecific antibody, Fab fragment, Fab' fragment, F(ab')2 fragment, Fd' fragment. , Fd fragments, isolated CDRs or sets thereof, single chain variable fragments (scFv), polypeptide-Fc fusions, single domain antibodies (sdAb), VHs, camel antibodies, masked antibodies, Small Modular ImmunoPharmaceuticals (“SMIPs”) (trademark), single chain, tandem diabody, VHH, Anticalin, nanobody, humabody, minibody, BiTE, ankyrin repeat protein, DARPIN, avimer, DART, TCR-like antibody, Adnectin, Affilin, transbody, Affibody, selected from the group consisting of TrimerX, Microprotein, Fynomer, Sentinin, and KALBITOR.

[0063] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent is a single domain antibody (sdAb).

[0064] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent is a heavy chain only antibody (VH).

[0065] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent binds GCC with a KD of about 0.3 nanomolar (nM) to about 10 nM.

[0066] In some embodiments, the GCC binding agent binds GCC on target cells with an EC50 of about 0.5 nM to about 8 nM.

[0067] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of treating cancer, the method comprising administering a GCC binding agent described herein to a subject in need of treatment.

[0068] In some embodiments, the cancer is gastrointestinal cancer, colorectal cancer, colorectal adenocarcinoma, colorectal leiomyosarcoma, colorectal lymphoma, colorectal melanoma, colorectal neuroendocrine tumor, metastatic colon cancer, gastric cancer , gastric adenocarcinoma, gastric lymphoma, gastric sarcoma, esophageal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, or pancreatic cancer.

[0069] In some embodiments, the cancer is gastrointestinal cancer.

[0070] In some embodiments, the gastrointestinal cancer is colon cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, or esophageal cancer.

[0071] In one aspect, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a GCC binding agent and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein the GCC binding agent comprises HYYWS(HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 8), RIYPSGSTSYNPSLKS(HCDR2) Heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequence of DRSTGWSEWNSDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 16), RYWMS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 9), KIRHDGGEKYYVDSVKG (HCDR2) ( Heavy chain variable region (VH) having complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of SEQ ID NO: 12) and DYTRDV (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 17), RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIKYDGSEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 13) and a heavy chain variable region (VH) with complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18), RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYPDSVKG (HCDR2 ) (SEQ ID NO: 14) and a heavy chain variable region (VH) with the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequence of DYNKDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 19) or RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYADSVKG ( HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 15) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18).

[0072] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of treating cancer, the method comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a GCC binding agent, wherein the GCC binding agent is HYYWS(HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: :8), heavy chain variable region (VH) with complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RIYPSGSTSYNPSLKS (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 11) and DRSTGWSEWNSDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 16), RYWMS (HCDR1) (sequence No. 9), heavy chain variable region (VH) having complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of KIRHDGGEKYYVDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 12) and DYTRDV (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 17), RYWMT (HCDR1) ( SEQ ID NO: 10), heavy chain variable region (VH) having complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of KIKYDGSEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 13) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18), RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), RYWMT (HCDR1) or a heavy chain variable region (VH) with complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of ) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 15) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18).

[0073] In one aspect, the invention provides a nucleic acid encoding a VH amino acid sequence that is identical to any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 20, 21, 26, 27, or 28.

[0074] In one aspect, the invention provides a vector comprising a nucleic acid encoding a VH amino acid sequence that is identical to any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 20, 21, 26, 27, or 28.

[0075] In one aspect, the invention provides an isolated cell comprising a vector comprising a nucleic acid encoding a VH amino acid sequence that is identical to any one of SEQ ID NO: 1, 20, 21, 26, 27, or 28.

[0076] It is to be understood that both the foregoing summary and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the invention as claimed.

[0077] The drawings contained herein, consisting of the following figures, are for illustrative purposes only and are not limiting. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0078] [Figure 1A] An exemplary chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct is shown. [Figure 1B] An exemplary chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct is shown.

Figure 2

[0079] definition In order that the present invention may be more easily understood, certain terms are first defined below. Additional definitions for the following terms and other terms are provided herein.

[0080] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. . Thus, for example, reference to "a method" includes one or more methods and / or steps of the type described herein and / or will be understood by those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure and the like. It becomes clear.

[0081] Administration: As used herein, "administering" a composition to a subject means giving, applying, or contacting the composition to a subject. Administration can be accomplished by any of a number of routes, including, for example, topically, orally, subcutaneously, intramuscularly, intraperitoneally, intravenously, intrathecally, and intradermally.

[0082] Affinity: As used herein, the term "affinity" refers to the relationship between a binding moiety (e.g., an antigen-binding agent (e.g., a variable domain described herein)) and a target (e.g., an antigen (e.g., , GCC)), which indicates the strength of the binding interaction. In some embodiments, the measure of affinity is the dissociation constant (K D ). In some embodiments, the binding moiety has a high affinity for the target (e.g., about 10 -7 Less than M, about 10 -8 less than M, or about 10 -9 K less than M D ). In some embodiments, the binding moiety has a low affinity for the target (e.g., about 10 -7 Over M, about 10 -6 Over M, about 10 -5 More than M, or about 10 -4 K over M D ).

[0083] Animal: As used herein, the term "animal" refers to any member of the animal kingdom. In some embodiments, "animal" refers to humans at any stage of development. In some embodiments, "animal" refers to a non-human animal at any stage of development. In certain embodiments, the non-human animal is a mammal (eg, a rodent, mouse, rat, rabbit, monkey, dog, cat, sheep, cow, primate, and / or pig). In some embodiments, animals include, but are not limited to, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and / or helminths. In some embodiments, the animal may be a transgenic animal, a genetically engineered animal, and / or a clone.

[0084] Self: As used herein, the term "self" refers to any material that is derived from the same individual when that material is later reintroduced into the individual.

[0085] Allogeneic: "Allogeneic" refers to material derived from one individual that is administered to a different individual(s).

[0086] Antibody or Antigen Binding Agent: As used herein, the term "antibody" or "antigen binding agent" refers to a classical immunoglobulin sequence sufficient to confer specific binding to a particular target antigen. Refers to a polypeptide containing the element. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms may be used interchangeably herein. In some embodiments, the term "antibody" or "antigen-binding agent" as used herein also refers to "antibody fragment(s)" or "antigen-binding portion," which includes e.g. , including portions of an intact antibody, such as the antigen-binding region or variable region of the antibody. Examples of "antibody fragments" include Fab, Fab', F(ab')2, and Fv fragments, triabodies, tetrabodies, linear antibodies, single-chain antibody molecules, and multiplex antibody molecules formed from antibody fragments. Examples include CDR-containing portions contained in specific antibodies. Those skilled in the art will understand that the term "antibody fragment" does not imply or be limited to any particular mode of production. Antibody fragments may be made using any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, cleavage of intact antibodies, chemical synthesis, recombinant production, and the like. As is known in the art, an intact antibody, as produced in nature, is a tetrameric drug of approximately 150 kD, consisting of two identical heavy chain polypeptides (approximately 50 kD each) and two identical It is composed of light chain polypeptides (approximately 25 kD each) that associate with each other into what is commonly referred to as a "Y-shaped" structure. Each heavy chain is composed of at least four domains (each approximately 110 amino acids long), which are amino-terminal variable (V H ) domain (located at the tip of the Y structure), followed by three constant domains: C H 1.C H 2, and carboxy-terminal C H 3 (located at the base of the Y-shaped trunk). A short region known as a "switch" connects the heavy chain variable and constant regions. "Hinge" is C H 2 and C H 3 domain to the rest of the antibody. Two disulfide bonds in this hinge region link the two heavy chain polypeptides together in an intact antibody. Each light chain is composed of two domains, which are amino-terminal variable (V L ) domains, followed by carboxy-terminal constant (C L ) domain. An intact antibody tetramer is composed of two heavy chain-light chain dimers, where the heavy and light chains are linked to each other by one disulfide bond and two other disulfide bonds are To link the hinge regions together, the dimers are linked together to form a tetramer. Naturally produced antibodies are also typically C H Glycosylated on the 2 domain. Each domain in a natural antibody is an "immunoglobulin" formed from two beta sheets (e.g., three-stranded, four-stranded, or five-stranded sheets) that are compressed together in a compressed antiparallel beta barrel. It has a structure characterized by "fold". Each variable domain contains three hypervariable loops known as "complementarity determining regions" (CDR1, CDR2, and CDR3) and four somewhat invariant "framework" regions (FR1, FR2, FR3, and FR4) do. When a natural antibody is folded, the FR regions form a beta sheet that provides a structural framework for the domain, and the CDR loop regions from both the heavy and light chains come together in three-dimensional space so that they Forms a single hypervariable antigen binding site located at the tip of the structure. Amino acid sequence comparisons between antibody polypeptide chains reveal two light chain (κ and λ) classes, several heavy chain (e.g., μ, γ, α, ε, δ) classes, as well as certain heavy chain subclasses. (α1, α2, γ1, γ2, γ3, and γ4) are defined. Antibody classes (IgA [including IgA1, IgA2], IgD, IgE, IgG [including IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4], and IgM) are defined based on the class of heavy chain sequences utilized.

[0087] For purposes of the present invention, in certain embodiments, any polypeptide or complex of polypeptides that includes sufficient immunoglobulin domain sequences, such as those found in naturally occurring antibodies, "Antibody" or " may be referred to as and / or used as an "antigen binding agent". In some embodiments, the antibody is monoclonal; in some embodiments, the antibody is polyclonal. In some embodiments, the antibody has constant region sequences characteristic of murine, rabbit, primate, or human antibodies. In some embodiments, the antibody sequence elements have been humanized, primatized, chimerized, etc., as is known in the art. Additionally, the terms "antibody" or "antigen binding agent" as used herein are used in the art to acquire the structural and functional characteristics of an antibody in an alternative presentation, in a suitable embodiment. It will be understood to include (unless stated otherwise or clear from the context) that it may refer to any known or developed construct or format. For example, in some embodiments, the term refers to bi or other multispecific (e.g., zybody) antibodies, Small Modular ImmunoPharmaceuticals (“SMIPs™), single chain antibodies, camel antibodies, and / or antibody fragments. In some embodiments, the antibody may lack covalent modifications (eg, glycan attachment) that it would have if it were naturally produced. In some embodiments, the antibody has covalent modifications (e.g., attachment of glycans, payloads [e.g., detectable moieties, therapeutic moieties, catalytic moieties, etc.]), or other pendant groups [e.g., polyethylene glycol, etc.] May contain.

[0088] Approximately or about: As used herein, the term "approximately" or "about" refers to a value similar to a stated reference value when applied to one or more values ​​of interest. In certain embodiments, the term "approximately" or "about" refers to the term "approximately" or "about" unless otherwise stated or clear from the context (where such number would exceed 100% of the possible values). ), 25%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, Refers to a range of values ​​that fall within (above or below) 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or less in either direction.

[0089] Complementarity Determining Region (CDR): The “CDR” of a variable domain can be defined as Kabat, Chothia, both Kabat and Chothia stacking, i.e., AbM, contact, and / or conformational definition, or any other known in the art. Amino acid residues within the variable region identified according to the CDR determination method. CDRs of antibodies may be identified as hypervariable regions, first defined by Kabat et al. See, eg, Kabat et al., 1992, Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, 5th ed., Public Health Service, NIH, Washington D.C. CDR positions may also be identified as structural loop structures originally described by Chothia et al. See, eg, Chothia et al., Nature 342:877-883, 1989. Other approaches for CDR identification are a compromise between Kabat and Chothia, and "AbM definitions" derived using Oxford Molecular's AbM antibody modeling software (now Accelrys®); The "contact definition" of CDRs based on observed antigen contact sites is described in MacCallum et al., J. Mol. Biol., 262:732-745, 1996. In another approach, referred to herein as "conformational definition" of a CDR, positions in a CDR may be identified as residues that contribute enthalpically to antigen binding. See, eg, Makabe et al., Journal of Biological Chemistry, 283:1 156-1166, 2008. Still other CDR boundary definitions may not strictly follow one of the approaches described above, but may suggest that specific residues or groups of residues or even entire CDRs do not have a significant impact on antigen binding. CDRs may be shortened or lengthened in light of predictions or experimental findings, but nevertheless overlap with at least a portion of the Kabat CDRs. Unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the definitions of CDRs follow the Kabat CDRs.

[0090] Effector function: As used herein, the term "effector function" refers to biological activity as attributable to the antigen binding agents described herein. Examples of antibody effector functions include C1q binding and complement-dependent cytotoxicity, Fc receptor binding, antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), phagocytosis, and cell surface receptors (e.g., B-cell receptors). as well as B cell activation. "Reduced or minimized" antibody effector function is defined as having at least 50% (or 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96 %, 97%, 98%, or 99%). Determination of antibody effector function is readily determinable and measurable by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, antibody effector functions of complement fixation, complement-dependent cytotoxicity, and antibody-dependent cytotoxicity are affected. In some embodiments, effector function is eliminated by mutations in the constant region that eliminate glycosylation, eg, "effectorless mutations." In one embodiment, the effectorless mutation is the N297A or DANA mutation (D265A+N297A) in the CH2 region. Shields et al., J. Biol. Chem. 276(9):6591-6604 (2001). Alternatively, additional mutations that result in reduced or eliminated effector function include K322A and L234A / L235A (LALA). Alternatively, effector function can be achieved by production techniques, such as expression in host cells that do not glycosylate (e.g., E. coli.) or that result in altered glycosylation patterns that are ineffective or less effective in promoting effector function. (e.g., Shinkawa et al., J. Biol. Chem. 278(5):3466-3473 (2003)).

[0091] Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, or ADCC, is a secreted enzyme that binds to Fc receptors (FcRs) present on certain cytotoxic cells (e.g., natural killer (NK) cells, neutrophils, and macrophages). Ig refers to a form of cytotoxicity that allows these cytotoxic effector cells to specifically bind to antigen-bearing target cells and subsequently kill the target cells using a cytotoxin. "Arming" cytotoxic cells with antibodies is necessary for killing target cells by this mechanism. NK cells, the main cells for mediating ADCC, express only FcγRIII, while monocytes express FcγRI, FcγRII and FcγRIII. Fc expression on hematopoietic cells is summarized in Table 3 on page 464 of Ravetch and Kinet, Annu. Rev. Immunol. 9:457-92 (1991). In vitro ADCC assays, such as those described in US Pat. No. 5,500,362 or US Pat. No. 5,821,337, may be performed to assess the ADCC activity of a molecule of interest. Useful effector cells for such assays include peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and natural killer (NK) cells. Alternatively, or in addition, the ADCC activity of a molecule of interest may be assessed in vivo, eg, in an animal model such as the model disclosed in Clynes et al., PNAS USA 95:652-656 (1998).

[0092] Antigen: As used herein, the term "antigen" refers to an agent that elicits an immune response, and / or is bound by a T cell receptor (e.g., when presented by an MHC molecule), or refers to an agent that binds to antibodies (eg, produced by B cells) when exposed to or administered to an organism. In some embodiments, the antigen elicits a humoral response within the organism (e.g., including the production of antigen-specific antibodies); For example, a T cell receptor (involving T cells specifically interacting with an antigen) elicits a cellular response. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a particular antigen may elicit an immune response in one or several members of the target organism (e.g., mouse, rabbit, primate, human), but not in all members of the target species. will be done. In some embodiments, the antigen is at least about 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% of the members of the target species. , 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% induces an immune response. In some embodiments, the antigen binds to antibodies and / or T cell receptors and may or may not induce a particular physiological response within the organism. In some embodiments, for example, an antigen may bind to an antibody and / or a T cell receptor in vitro, regardless of whether such interaction occurs in vivo. In some embodiments, the antigen reacts with the products of specific humoral or cell-mediated immunity, including those induced by heterologous immunogens. In some embodiments of the disclosed compositions and methods, the GCC protein is an antigen.

[0093] Associated with: As the term is used herein, two events or entities are “associated with” each other when the presence, level, and / or form of one correlates with those of the other. For example, a particular entity (e.g., a polypeptide) may be used if its presence, levels, and / or form correlates with the incidence and / or susceptibility of a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., across a relevant population). considered to be associated with a particular disease, disorder, or condition. In some embodiments, two or more entities are physically “related” to each other if they are in physical proximity to each other and remain in close proximity through direct or indirect interaction. "are doing. In some embodiments, two or more entities that are physically related to each other are covalently bonded to each other, and in some embodiments, two or more entities that are physically related to each other are Not covalently bonded, but non-covalently associated, for example, by hydrogen bonding, van der Waals interactions, hydrophobic interactions, magnetism, and combinations thereof.

[0094] Binding: The term "binding" as used herein will generally be understood to refer to a non-covalent association between or among two or more entities. A "direct" bond includes physical contact between the entities or portions, and an indirect bond includes physical interaction by physical contact with one or more intermediate entities. Binding between two or more entities occurs when the interacting entities or moieties are studied alone or in the context of a more complex system (e.g., covalently or otherwise associated with a carrier entity). and / or in biological systems or cells). As used herein, “K a ” refers to the rate of association of a particular binding moiety with a target to form a binding moiety / target complex. As used herein, “K d ” refers to the dissociation rate of a particular binding moiety / target complex. As used herein, “K D ” refers to the dissociation constant, which is K d and K a (i.e., K d / K a ) and expressed as molar concentration (M). K D Values ​​can be determined using methods well established in the art, for example by using surface plasmon resonance or by using a biosensor system such as the Biacore® system.

[0095] Carrier: As used herein, the term "carrier" refers to a diluent, adjuvant, excipient, or vehicle with which the composition is administered. In some exemplary embodiments, carriers include sterile liquids, such as water and oils, such as oils of petroleum, animal, vegetable or synthetic origin, such as peanut oil, soybean oil, mineral oil, sesame oil, and the like. Things can be mentioned. In some embodiments, the carrier is or includes one or more solid components.

[0096] Characteristic part: As used herein, the term "characteristic part" is used in its broadest sense, meaning that the presence (or absence) of a substance indicates the presence (or absence) of a particular characteristic, attribute, or activity of the substance. refers to a part of a substance that correlates with In some embodiments, a characteristic portion of a material is a portion found in materials and related materials that share a particular characteristic, attribute, or activity, rather than materials that do not share the particular characteristic, attribute, or activity.

[0097] Codon-optimized: As used herein, a "codon-optimized" nucleic acid sequence has been altered such that translation of the nucleic acid sequence and expression of the resulting protein is improved for optimization for a particular expression system. refers to a nucleic acid sequence that contains A "codon-optimized" nucleic acid sequence encodes the same protein as the non-optimized parent sequence on which the "codon-optimized" nucleic acid sequence is based. For example, the nucleic acid sequences may be "codon-optimized" for expression in mammalian cells (e.g., CHO cells, human cells, mouse cells, etc.), bacterial cells (e.g., E. coli), insect cells, yeast cells, or plant cells. ” may be done.

[0098] Equivalent: As used herein, the term "equivalent" refers to an observed difference or similarity that may not be identical to each other, but is sufficiently similar to permit a comparison between them. A set of two or more drugs, entities, circumstances, conditions, etc. on the basis of which a conclusion may reasonably be reached. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the degree of identity required in order for two or more such agents, entities, situations, sets of conditions, etc., to be considered equivalent in any given context. I will do it.

[0099] Corresponds to: As used herein, the term “corresponds to” is often used to specify the position / identity of an amino acid residue in a polypeptide of interest. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, for brevity, residues in polypeptides are often designated using a classical numbering system based on the reference-related polypeptide, so for example, residue 190 " It will be understood that the amino acid "corresponding to" need not actually be the 190th amino acid of a particular amino acid chain, but rather corresponds to the residue found at position 190 of the reference polypeptide; Easily understand how to identify the corresponding amino acids.

[0100] Origin: As used herein, the phrase "derived from" or "specific for a designated sequence" refers to, for example, a sequence that corresponds to, i.e., is identical to, or is identical to, the flanking region of the designated sequence. at least about 6 nucleotides or at least 2 amino acids, at least about 9 nucleotides or at least 3 amino acids, at least about 10 to 12 nucleotides or 4 amino acids, or at least about 15 to 21 nucleotides or 5 to 7 complementary thereto. Refers to a sequence containing two consecutive amino acid sequences. In certain embodiments, the sequence includes all of the specified nucleotide or amino acid sequences. The sequences may be complementary to (in the case of polynucleotide sequences) or identical to sequence regions unique to a particular sequence, as determined by techniques known in the art. Regions from which sequences can be derived include, in addition to regions encoding specific epitopes, regions encoding CDRs, regions encoding framework sequences, regions encoding constant domain regions, and regions encoding variable domain regions. These include, but are not limited to, untranslated and / or untranscribed regions. The resulting sequence is not necessarily physically derived from the sequence of interest under test, but is chemically synthesized based on the information provided by the base sequence of the region(s) from which the polynucleotide is derived. can be produced by any method including, but not limited to, replication, reverse transcription, or transcription. Thus, the sequences may represent either the sense or antisense orientation of the original polynucleotide. In addition, combinations of regions corresponding to regions of a designated sequence may be modified or combined by methods known in the art to match the intended use. For example, a sequence may include two or more contiguous sequences, each of which contains a portion of the specified sequence, and a region that is not identical to the specified sequence but is intended to represent a sequence derived from the specified sequence. It has been inserted. With respect to an antibody molecule, "derived from" includes an antibody molecule that is functionally or structurally related to the comparison antibody, e.g., "derived from" has a similar or substantially the same sequence or structure. For example, it includes antibody molecules having the same or similar CDRs, frameworks or variable regions. "Derived from" an antibody also includes residues, e.g., one or more, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more residues, which are contiguous and may or may not be defined or identified by the numbering scheme or by homology to the general antibody structure or three-dimensional proximity of comparative sequences, ie, within the CDR or framework regions. The term "derived from" is not limited to being physically derived from, but includes production by any method, such as using sequence information from a comparative antibody to design another antibody.

[0101] Determining: Many of the techniques described herein include a "determining" step. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such "determining" can be done using any of a variety of techniques available to one skilled in the art, including, for example, the specific techniques explicitly mentioned herein. You will understand that you can make use of it. In some embodiments, the determination involves manipulation of a physical sample. In some embodiments, the determination involves consideration and / or manipulation of data or information, eg, utilizing a computer or other processing unit adapted to perform the relevant analysis. In some embodiments, determining involves obtaining relevant information and / or materials from a source. In some embodiments, determining involves comparing one or more characteristics of the sample or entity to an equivalent reference.

[0102] Manipulated: As used herein, the term "engineered" refers to a material that has been designed or modified by humans and / or whose existence and production requires human intervention and / or activity. describes polynucleotides, polypeptides, or cells that For example, an engineered cell is intentionally designed to induce a particular effect that differs from that of naturally occurring cells of the same type. In some embodiments, the engineered cells express a chimeric antigen receptor described herein. Exemplary methods of operation are described in the Detailed Description and Examples section.

[0103] Epitope: As used herein, the term "epitope" includes any moiety that is specifically recognized, in whole or in part, by an immunoglobulin (eg, antibody or receptor) binding moiety. In some embodiments, an epitope is composed of multiple amino acids within an antigen. In some embodiments, such amino acid residues are surface exposed when the antigen assumes a relevant three-dimensional conformation. In some embodiments, the amino acid residues are physically close to each other in space or conform to each other when the antigen assumes such a conformation. In some embodiments, at least some of the amino acids are physically separated from each other (eg, a non-linear epitope) when the antigen adopts another conformation (eg, becomes linear).

[0104] Excipient: As used herein, the term "excipient" refers to when included in a pharmaceutical composition, e.g., to provide or contribute to a desired consistency or stabilizing effect. refers to non-therapeutic agents that have Suitable pharmaceutical excipients include, for example, starch, glucose, lactose, sucrose, gelatin, malt, rice, flour, chalk, silica gel, sodium stearate, glycerol monostearate, talc, sodium chloride, skim milk powder, glycerol, Examples include propylene, glycol, water, and ethanol.

[0105] Expression: The term "expression" or "expressed" as used herein in reference to a nucleic acid refers to one or more of the following events: (1) the expression of an RNA transcript of a DNA template; production (e.g., by transcription), (2) processing of the RNA transcript (e.g., by splicing, editing, 5' capping, and / or 3' end formation), (3) translation of the RNA into a polypeptide, and / or (4) post-translational modification of the polypeptide.

[0106] Ex vivo: As used herein, the term "ex vivo" refers to events that occur outside the external environment, eg, outside a multicellular organism. In some embodiments, a cell or cell population is modified in vitro in a multicellular organism (e.g., a non-human primate or a mammal such as a human) to make such cell or cell population in need thereof. The anti-GCC molecules described herein are expressed prior to administration to a subject.

[0107] Fusion protein: As used herein, the term "fusion protein" refers to a protein encoded by a nucleic acid sequence engineered from nucleic acid sequences encoding at least a portion of two different (e.g., heterologous) proteins. Point. As those skilled in the art will no doubt appreciate, to create fusion proteins, nucleic acid sequences are ligated such that the resulting reading frame does not contain internal stop codons. In some embodiments, a fusion protein as described herein comprises an influenza HA polypeptide or a fragment thereof.

[0108] Guanylyl cyclase C (GCC): As used herein, "GCC" is also known as "STAR", "GUC2C", "GUCY2C" or "ST receptor" protein, and refers to mammalian GCC, preferably refers to human GCC protein. Human GCC refers to the protein described in GenBank Accession Number: NM_004963 and its naturally occurring allelic protein variants. Other variants are known in the art. See, eg, Accession No. Ensp0000261170, Ensembl Database, European Bioinformatics Institute and Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, US Patent Application No. 20060035852, or GENBANK Accession No. AAB 19934. Typically, naturally occurring allelic variants have amino acid sequences that are at least 95%, 97% or 99% identical to the GCC sequence of SEQ ID NO:41. The transcript encodes a protein product of 1073 amino acids and is described under GenBank accession number: NM-004963. GCC proteins are characterized as transmembrane cell surface receptor proteins and are thought to play important roles in intestinal fluid maintenance, electrolyte homeostasis and cell proliferation.

[0109] Host: The term "host" is used herein to refer to a system (eg, cell, organism, etc.) in which a polypeptide of interest is present. In some embodiments, the host is a system that expresses a particular polypeptide of interest.

[0110] Host cell: As used herein, the phrase "host cell" refers to a cell into which foreign DNA (recombinant or otherwise) has been introduced. For example, host cells may be used to produce the polypeptides described herein by standard recombinant techniques. After reading this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that such terms refer not only to a particular cell of interest, but also to the progeny of such a cell. Such progeny may not actually be identical to the parent cell, as certain modifications may occur in subsequent generations, either due to mutations or environmental influences; still fall within the scope of the term "host cell" as used in . In some embodiments, host cells include any prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells suitable for expressing foreign DNA (eg, recombinant nucleic acid sequences). Exemplary cells include prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (unicellular or multicellular), bacterial cells (e.g., strains of E. coli, Bacillus sp., Streptomyces sp., etc.), mycobacterial cells, fungal cells, yeast cells. (e.g., S.cerevisiae, S.pombe, P.pastoris, P.methanolica, etc.), plant cells, insect cells (e.g., SF-9, SF-21, baculovirus-infected insect cells, Trichoplusia ni, etc.), non-human Examples include animal cells, human cells, or cell fusions, such as hybridomas or quadromas. In some embodiments, the cell is a human, monkey, ape, hamster, rat, or mouse cell. In some embodiments, the cells are eukaryotic cells, such as: CHO (e.g., CHO K1, DXB-11 CHO, Veggie-CHO), COS (e.g., COS-7), retinal cells, Vero, CV1, kidney (e.g. HEK293, HEK293T, 293EBNA, MSR293, MDCK, HaK, BHK), HeLa, HepG2, WI38, MRC5, Colo205, HB8065, HL-60 (e.g. BHK21), Jurkat, Daudi, A431 (epidermis) , CV-1, U937, 3T3, L cells, C127 cells, SP2 / 0, NS-0, MMT060562, Sertoli cells, BRL 3A cells, HT1080 cells, myeloma cells, tumor cells, and cells derived from the above-mentioned cells. Selected from stocks. In some embodiments, the cell comprises one or more viral genes, such as a retinal cell (eg, a PER.C6™ cell) that expresses a viral gene.

[0111] Immune response: As used herein, the term "immune response" refers to the response of cells of the immune system, such as B cells, T cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, or polymorphonuclear cells, to a stimulus such as an antigen or vaccine. It refers to responding to someone. The immune response can involve any cell of the body involved in the host defense response, including, for example, epithelial cells that secrete interferons or cytokines. Immune responses include, but are not limited to, innate immune responses and / or adaptive immune responses. As used herein, a protective immune response refers to an immune response that protects a subject from infection (prevents infection or prevents the development of a disease associated with infection). Methods for measuring immune responses are well known in the art and include, for example, measuring lymphocyte (such as B or T cell) proliferation and / or activity, cytokine or chemokine secretion, inflammation, antibody production, and the like.

[0112] In vitro: As used herein, the term "in vitro" refers to events that occur in an artificial environment, such as in a test tube or reaction vessel, in cell culture, etc., rather than within a multicellular organism.

[0113] In vivo: As used herein, the term "in vivo" refers to events that occur within multicellular organisms, such as humans and non-human animals. In the context of cell-based systems, the term may be used to refer to events that occur within living cells (as opposed to, eg, in vitro or ex vivo systems).

[0114] Isolated: As used herein, the term "isolated" means (1) separated from at least some of the components with which it was associated when originally produced ( (2) in nature and / or in an experimental setting) and / or (2) designed, produced, prepared, and / or manufactured by human intervention. Isolated substances and / or entities are about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about the other components with which they are originally associated. approximately 80%, approximately 90%, approximately 91%, approximately 92%, approximately 93%, approximately 94%, approximately 95%, approximately 96%, approximately 97%, approximately 98%, approximately 99%, or greater than approximately 99%. may be separated. In some embodiments, the isolated agent is about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, About 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or greater than about 99% pure. As used herein, a material is "pure" if it is substantially free of other constituents. In some embodiments, the materials are present in certain other components, such as one or more carriers or excipients (e.g., buffers, solvents, water, etc.), as will be understood by those skilled in the art. may still be considered "isolated" or even "pure" after being combined with such carrier or Calculated without including excipients. By way of example, in some embodiments, a biopolymer, such as a naturally occurring polypeptide or polynucleotide, is a) a component of the constituents that accompany the polymer in its native state in nature, by its source of origin or derivation; b) the polymer is substantially free of other polypeptides or nucleic acids of the same species derived from the species that naturally produces it; c) the species that naturally produces it; It is considered "isolated" if it is expressed by, or otherwise associated with, components derived from cells or other expression systems that are not related to the present invention. Thus, for example, in some embodiments, a polypeptide that is chemically synthesized or synthesized in a different cell line than the one that naturally produces the polypeptide is an "isolated" polypeptide. It is considered that there is. Alternatively, or in addition, in some embodiments, the polypeptide that is subjected to one or more purification techniques is a polypeptide with which the polypeptide is a) associated in nature, and / or b) a polypeptide that is As long as a polypeptide is separated from the other components with which it is associated, it can be considered an "isolated" polypeptide. In some embodiments, cells may be "isolated" (eg, purified or separated) from other cells. For example, in some embodiments, genetically modified cells engineered to express a CAR described herein can be isolated from unmodified cells.

[0115] Nucleic acid: As used herein, the phrase "nucleic acid" in its broadest sense refers to any compound and / or substance that is or can be incorporated into an oligonucleotide chain. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is a compound and / or substance that is or can be incorporated into an oligonucleotide chain by a phosphodiester linkage. As will be clear from the context, in some embodiments a "nucleic acid" refers to an individual nucleic acid residue (e.g., a nucleotide and / or a nucleoside); Refers to an oligonucleotide chain containing nucleic acid residues. In some embodiments, a "nucleic acid" is or includes RNA, and in some embodiments, a "nucleic acid" is or includes DNA. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is, comprises, or consists of one or more naturally occurring nucleic acid residues. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is, comprises, or consists of one or more nucleic acid analogs. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid analog differs from a nucleic acid in that it does not utilize a phosphodiester backbone. For example, in some embodiments, the nucleic acid is, comprises, or consists of one or more "peptide nucleic acids," as "peptide nucleic acids" are known in the art, and includes phosphodiester bonds. have peptide bonds in the backbone instead of and these are considered within the scope of this invention. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the nucleic acid has one or more phosphorothioate and / or 5'-N-phosphoramidite linkages rather than phosphodiester linkages. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is or includes one or more naturally occurring nucleosides (e.g., adenosine, thymidine, guanosine, cytidine, uridine, deoxyadenosine, deoxythymidine, deoxyguanosine, and deoxycytidine). , or consisting of them. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid contains one or more nucleoside analogs (e.g., 2-aminoadenosine, 2-thiothymidine, inosine, pyrrolo-pyrimidine, 3-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytidine, C-5propynyl- Cytidine, C-5 propynyl-uridine, 2-aminoadenosine, C5-bromouridine, C5-fluorouridine, C5-iodouridine, C5-propynyl-uridine, C5-propynyl-cytidine, C5-methylcytidine, 2-aminoadenosine , 7-deazaadenosine, 7-deazaguanosine, 8-oxoadenosine, 8-oxoguanosine, O(6)-methylguanine, 2-thiocytidine, methylated bases, inserted bases, and combinations thereof). , including or consisting of them. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid comprises one or more modified sugars (e.g., 2'-fluororibose, ribose, 2'-deoxyribose, arabinose, and hexose) when compared to sugars in naturally occurring nucleic acids. . In some embodiments, the nucleic acid has a nucleotide sequence that encodes a functional gene product such as RNA or protein. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid includes one or more introns. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is isolated from a natural source, enzymatically synthesized (in vivo or in vitro) by complementary template-based polymerization, regenerated in recombinant cells or systems, and chemically synthesized. Prepared by. In some embodiments, the nucleic acids are at least 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 , 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 20, 225, 250, 275, 300, 325, 350, 375, 400, 425 , 450, 475, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, 4000, 4500, 5000 or more residues in length. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is single stranded, and in some embodiments the nucleic acid is double stranded. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid has a nucleotide sequence that includes at least one element that encodes a polypeptide or is the complement of a sequence that encodes a polypeptide. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid has enzymatic activity.

[0116] Pharmaceutically Acceptable Vehicles: Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers (vehicles) useful in this disclosure are conventional. Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences, by E.W. Martin, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, PA, 15 th Edition (1975) describes compositions and formulations suitable for pharmaceutical delivery of one or more therapeutic compositions (e.g., compositions comprising the chimeric antigen receptors described herein), as well as additional pharmaceutical agents. are doing. Generally, the nature of the carrier will depend on the particular mode of administration being used. For example, parenteral formulations typically include injectable fluids containing pharmaceutically and physiologically acceptable fluids as vehicles, such as water, saline, balanced salt solutions, aqueous dextrose, glycerol, and the like. For solid compositions (eg, powder, pill, tablet, or capsule forms), conventional non-toxic solid carriers can include, for example, pharmaceutical grades of mannitol, lactose, starch, or magnesium stearate. In addition to biologically neutral carriers, the administered pharmaceutical compositions may contain minor amounts of non-toxic auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, preservatives, and pH buffering agents, such as sodium acetate or sorbitan monomer. It may contain laurate and the like.

[0117] Polypeptide: A "polypeptide," generally speaking, is a series of at least two amino acids joined together by peptide bonds. In some embodiments, a polypeptide may include at least 3-5 amino acids, each of which is linked to other amino acids by at least one peptide bond. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that polypeptides may sometimes include "unnatural" amino acids or other entities, which nevertheless can be optionally incorporated within the polypeptide chain. In some embodiments, the term "polypeptide" is used to refer to a specific functional class of polypeptides, such as antibodies, chimeric antigen receptors, or costimulatory domain polypeptides. For each such class, this specification provides several examples of amino acid sequences of known exemplary polypeptides within the class, and / or they are art-recognized and certain embodiments. In this case, one or more such known polypeptides are reference polypeptides for the class. In such embodiments, the term "polypeptide" refers to any member of the class that exhibits sufficient sequence homology or identity with the related reference polypeptide, and one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is included within the class. They will understand that it should be done. In many embodiments, members of the representative class also share significant activities with the reference polypeptide. For example, in some embodiments, the member polypeptides exhibit an overall degree of sequence homology or identity with the reference polypeptide, which is at least about 30-40%, and often about 50%. , 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, more than or in excess of 99%, and / or many At least one region (i.e., often containing characteristic sequence elements) exhibiting a very high sequence identity of greater than 90% or even 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% , storage area). Such conserved regions typically include at least 3 to 4, often up to 20 or more amino acids, and in some embodiments, conserved regions include at least a stretch of at least 2, 3, 4, Includes 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or more consecutive amino acids.

[0118] It is understood that the antibodies and antigen binding agents of the invention may have additional conservative or non-essential amino acid substitutions, which do not materially affect polypeptide function. Whether a particular substitution is permissible, i.e. does not adversely affect the desired biological properties such as binding activity, is determined by Bowie, J U et al. Science 247:1306-1310 (1990) or Padlan et al. .FASEB J.9:133-139 (1995). A "conservative amino acid substitution" is one in which the amino acid residue is replaced with an amino acid residue having a similar side chain. Families of amino acid residues with similar side chains have been defined in the art. These families include basic side chains (e.g. lysine, arginine, histidine), acidic side chains (e.g. aspartic acid, glutamic acid), uncharged polar side chains (e.g. asparagine, glutamine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, cysteine), non-polar side chains (e.g. glycine, alanine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, proline, phenylalanine, methionine, tryptophan), beta-branched side chains (e.g. threonine, valine, isoleucine) and aromatic side chains (e.g. Examples include amino acids having tyrosine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, and histidine).

[0119] Prevention: As used herein, the term "prophylaxis" refers to prevention, avoidance of disease development, delay of onset, and / or prevention of a particular disease, disorder or condition (e.g., infection by an influenza virus). refers to a reduction in the frequency and / or severity of one or more symptoms of In some embodiments, prevention includes a statistically significant reduction in the occurrence, frequency, and / or intensity of one or more symptoms of a disease, disorder, or condition in a population susceptible to the disease, disorder, or condition. A drug is considered to "prevent" a particular disease, disorder, or condition if it is observed on a population basis.

[0120] Purity: As used herein, an agent or entity is "pure" if it is substantially free of other components. For example, a preparation containing more than about 90% of a particular drug or entity is generally considered to be a pure preparation. In some embodiments, the agent or entity is at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% pure. be.

[0121] Recombinant: As used herein, the term "recombinant" refers to a polypeptide that is designed, manipulated, prepared, expressed, made or isolated by recombinant means (e.g., as described herein). polypeptides), e.g., polypeptides expressed using recombinant expression vectors transfected into host cells, polypeptides isolated from recombinant combinatorial polypeptide libraries, or splicing selected sequence elements together. It is intended to refer to polypeptides, etc., which are prepared, expressed, produced or isolated by any other means, including by any other means. In some embodiments, one or more of such selected sequence elements are found in nature. In some embodiments, one or more of such selected array elements and / or combinations thereof are designed in silico. In some embodiments, one or more such selected sequence elements is a combination of multiple (e.g., two or more) known sequence elements that do not occur naturally in the same polypeptide (e.g., two separate (two epitopes derived from the HA polypeptide).

[0122] Reference: The term "reference" is used many times herein to describe a standard or control agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value to which an agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value is compared. Used in the case of In some embodiments, the reference agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value is tested and / or determined substantially simultaneously with the testing or determination of the agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value of interest. . In some embodiments, the reference agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value is a historical reference, optionally embodied in a tangible medium. Typically, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, a reference agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value is utilized to determine or characterize the agent, individual, population, sample, sequence or value of interest. determined or characterized under conditions comparable to those of

[0123] Single domain antibody: As used herein, "single domain antibody (sdAb)," "variable single domain," or "immunoglobulin single variable domain (ISV)," "single heavy chain variable domain (VH ) The term "antibody" refers to a single variable fragment of an antibody that binds to a target antigen. These terms are used interchangeably herein. An sdAb is a single antigen-binding polypeptide with three complementarity determining regions (CDRs). An sdAb alone can bind an antigen without pairing with a corresponding CDR-containing polypeptide. VH single domain antibody refers to a single domain antibody having a human heavy chain variable domain or a domain derived from a human heavy chain variable domain. In some cases, single domain antibodies are engineered from camel HCAbs, and their heavy chain variable domains are referred to as "VHHs." Some VHHs may also be known as nanobodies. Camel sdAbs are among the smallest antigen-binding antibody fragments known (e.g., Hamers-Casterman et al., Nature 363:446-8 (1993), Greenberg et al., Nature 374:168-73 (1995). ), Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh et al., Nanomedicine (Lond), 8:1013-26 (2013)). The basic VHH has the following structure from N-terminus to C-terminus: FR1-CDR1-FR2-CDR2-FR3-CDR3-FR4, where FR1-FR4 refer to framework regions 1-4, respectively. , CDR1 to CDR3 refer to complementarity determining regions 1 to 3. As explained below, some embodiments of various aspects of the invention include a single heavy chain variable domain antibody / immunoglobulin heavy chain single variable domain that binds a GCC antigen in the absence of a light chain. Regarding binders.

[0124] Subject: As used herein, the term "subject" means any mammal, including humans. In certain embodiments of the invention, the subject is an adult, adolescent or infant. In some embodiments, the terms "individual" or "patient" are used and are intended to be interchangeable with "subject." Administration of the pharmaceutical composition and / or performance of the therapeutic method in utero is also contemplated by the present invention. For example, the subject may be suffering from cancer (e.g., of gastrointestinal origin), symptoms of cancer (at least some of the cells express GCC), or cancer (at least some of the cells express GCC). It can be a patient (eg, a human patient or a veterinary patient) who has a predisposition. The term "non-human animal" of the present invention, unless otherwise noted, includes all non-human vertebrates, such as non-human mammals and non-mammals, such as non-human primates, sheep, dogs, cows, Including chickens, amphibians, reptiles, etc.

[0125] Substantially: As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the qualitative state of expressing the entire or nearly total extent or degree of the characteristic or characteristic in question. Those skilled in the art of biological technology understand that biological and chemical phenomena are rarely, if ever, completed and / or do not proceed completely or achieve or avoid certain results. I will do it. Accordingly, the term "substantially" is used herein to capture the potential for lack of completeness inherent in many biological and chemical phenomena.

[0126] Therapeutic Agent: As used herein, the term "therapeutic agent" refers to a biologically active agent (eg, an antigen binding agent). The term is used herein to refer to a chemical compound, a mixture of chemical compounds, a biological macromolecule, or an extract made from biological materials. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent may be an anti-cancer or chemotherapeutic agent. As used herein, the term "anti-cancer agent" or "chemotherapeutic agent" refers to neoplasms, particularly malignant (cancerous) lesions, such as carcinomas, sarcomas, lymphomas, or leukemias in humans. refers to drugs that have functional properties that inhibit the onset or progression of Inhibition of metastasis or angiogenesis is often a property of anticancer or chemotherapeutic agents. Chemotherapeutic agents may be cytotoxic or cytostatic agents. The term "cytostatic agent" refers to an agent that inhibits or inhibits cell growth and / or proliferation of cells. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a genetically modified cell or antibody. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is an anti-GCC CAR. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a cell (eg, a population of cells) that expresses a GCC CAR described herein.

[0127] Transformation: as used herein refers to any process by which foreign DNA is introduced into a host cell. Transformation can be performed under natural or artificial conditions using a variety of methods well known in the art. Transformation may rely on any known method for the insertion of foreign nucleic acid sequences into prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cells. In some embodiments, the particular transformation technique is selected based on the host cell being transformed, which can include viral infection, electroporation, hybridization, transfection, lipofection, etc. but not limited to. In some embodiments, a "transformed" cell is stably transformed in that the inserted DNA is capable of replicating either as an autonomously replicating plasmid or as part of the host chromosome. In some embodiments, the transformed cell transiently expresses the introduced nucleic acid for a limited period of time.

[0128] Treat or treat: As used herein, the term "treat" or "therapy" refers to an anti-GCC antigen binding agent (e.g., an anti-GCC antibody or fragment thereof, an anti-GCC CAR, an anti-GCC CAR) (e.g., cells containing cells) to a subject, e.g., a patient, or to isolated tissues or cells derived from the subject that are returned to the subject, e.g., by application. Anti-GCC antigen binding agents can be administered alone or in combination with a second agent. Treatment includes curing, curing, alleviating, palliating, altering, repairing, ameliorate, palliating the disorder, symptoms of the disorder, or predisposition to the disorder, such as cancer. It may be to improve or influence this. Without wishing to be bound by theory, treatment may include inhibiting, eliminating, or killing cells in vitro or in vivo, or otherwise causing cells, e.g., abnormal cells, to cause a disorder, e.g. It is thought to cause a decrease in the ability to mediate disorders such as those described (eg, cancer).

[0129] Variable region or domain: As used herein, the term "variable region" or "variable domain" of an antibody refers to the amino-terminal domain of the heavy or light chain of an antibody. The heavy and light chain variable domains may be referred to as "VH" and "VL", respectively. These domains are generally the most variable parts of the antibody (compared to other antibodies of the same class) and contain the antigen binding site. Heavy chain-only antibodies have a single heavy chain variable region.

[0130] Vector: As used herein, the term "vector" refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked. One type of vector is a "plasmid," which refers to a circular double-stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be ligated. Another type of vector is a viral vector, in which additional DNA segments can be ligated to the viral genome. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication within a host cell into which they are introduced (eg, bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (eg, non-episomal mammalian vectors) can be integrated into the host cell's genome upon introduction into the host cell, thereby replicating along with the host genome. Additionally, certain vectors are capable of directing the expression of genes to which they are operably linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as "expression vectors." [Form for carrying out the invention]

[0131] The present invention is based on the discovery of novel antigen binding agents that specifically bind to guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) and their use in therapeutic methods. This application provides chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that include an anti-GCC single domain antibody (sdAb) and an extracellular antigen binding domain that includes one or more GCC binding moieties (such as an anti-GCC sdAb).

[0132] This invention is not limited to the particular methods and experimental conditions described, as such methods and conditions may vary. The scope of the invention is to be limited only by the appended claims, and the terminology used herein, unless indicated otherwise, is for the purpose of describing and limiting specific embodiments only. It should also be understood that this is not intended to be the case.

[0133] Guanylyl cyclase C Guanylyl cyclase C (GCC) (also known as STAR, ST receptor, GUC2C, and GUCY2C) is a transmembrane cell surface receptor that functions in intestinal fluid maintenance, electrolyte homeostasis, and cell proliferation (Carrithers et al. .,Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 100:3018-3020(2003), Mann et al.,Biochem Biophys Res Commun 239:463-466(1997), Pitari et al.,Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 100:2695-2699( 2003)), GenBank Accession No. NM-004963, each of which is incorporated herein by reference). This function is mediated by the binding of guanyline (Wiegand et al. FEBS Lett. 311:150-154 (1992)). GCC is also a receptor for thermostable enterotoxins (STs, e.g. with the amino acid sequence of NTFYCCELCCNPACAGCY (SEQ ID NO: 40)), which are peptides produced by other infectious organisms in addition to E. coli ( Rao, M. C. Ciba Found. Symp. 112:74-93 (1985), Knoop F. C. and Owens, M. J. Pharmacol. Toxicol. Methods 28:67-72 (1992)). The binding of ST to GCC activates a signal cascade that causes intestinal diseases, such as diarrhea. Nucleotide sequence of human GCC (GenBank accession number NM-004963). Amino acid sequence of human GCC (GenPept accession number NP-004954): MKTLLLDLALWSLLFQPGWLSFSSQVSQNCHNGSYEISVLMMGNSAFAEPLKNLEDAVNEGLEIVRGRLQNAGLNVTVNATFMYSDGLIHNSGDCRSSTCEGLDLLRKISNAQRMGCVLIGPSCTYSTFQMYLDTELSYPMISAGSFGLSCDYKETLTRLMSPARKLMYFLVNFWKTNDLPFKTYSWSTSYVYKNGTETEDCFWYLNALEASVSYFSHEL GFKVVLRQDKEFQDILMDHNRKSNVIIMCGGPEFLYKLKGDRAVAEDIVIILVDLFNDQYFEDNVTAPDYMKNVLVLTLSPGNSLLNSSFSRNLSPTKRDFALAYLNGILLFGHMLKIFLENGENITTPKFAHAFRNLTFEGYDGPVTLDDWGDVDSTMVLLYTSVDTKKYKVLLTYDTHVNKTYPVDMSPTFTWKNSKLPNDITGRGPQILMIAVFTLTG AVVLLLLVALLMLRKYRKDYELRQKKWSHIPPENIFPLETNETNHVSLKIDDDKRRDTIQRLRQCKYDKKRVILKDLKHNDGNFTEKQKIELNKLLQIDYYNLTKFYGTVKLDTMIFGVIEYCERGSLREVLNDTISYPDGTFMDWEFKISVLYDIAKGMSYLHSSKTEVHGRLKSTNCVVDSRMVVKITDFGCNSILPPKKDLWTAPHLR QANISQKGDVYSYGIIAQEIILRKETFYTLSCRDRNEKIFRVENSNGMKPFRPDLFLETAEEKELEVYLLVKNCWEEDPEKRPDFKKIETTLAKIFGLFHDQKNESYMDTLIRRLQLYSRNLEHLVEERTQLYKAERDRADRLNFMLLPRLVVKSLKEKGFVEPELYEEVTIYFSDIVGFTTICKYSTPMEVVDMLNDIYKSFDHIVDHHDVYKVETIG DAYMVASGLPKRNGNRHAIDIAKMALEILSFMGTFELEHLPGLPIWIRIGVHSGPCAAGVVGIKMPRYCLFGDTVNTASRMESTGLPLRIHVSGSTIAILKRTECQFLYEVRGETYLKGRGNETTYWLTGMKDQKFNLPTPPTVENQQRLQAEFSDMIANSLQKRQAAGIRSQKPRRVASYKKGTLEYLQLNTTDKESTYF (Sequence number: 41)

[0134] GCC proteins generally have several recognized domains, each of which contributes to the function of the GCC molecule. GCC functions include signal transduction to direct proteins to the cell surface, extracellular ligand binding, tyrosine kinase activity, and guanylyl cyclase catalytic activity. In normal human tissues, GCC is expressed in mucosal cells, such as the apical brush border membrane lining the small intestine, large intestine, and rectum (Carrithers et al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181 (1996)). . GCC expression is maintained during neoplastic transformation of intestinal epithelial cells and is associated with expression in all primary and metastatic colorectal tumors (Carrithers et al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181 (1996), Buc et al. al.Eur J Cancer 41:1618-1627(2005), Carrithers et al., Gastroenterology 107:1653-1661(1994)). Neoplastic cells from the stomach, esophagus, and esophagogastric junction also express GCC (see, eg, US Pat. No. 6,767,704, Debruyne et al. Gastroenterology 130:1191-1206 (2006)). For example, tissue-specific expression and association with cancers of gastrointestinal origin (e.g., colon cancer, gastric cancer, or esophageal cancer) can be exploited to use GCC as a diagnostic marker for this disease (Carrithers et al. al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181(1996), Buc et al. Eur J Cancer 41:1618-1627(2005)).

[0135] As a cell surface protein, GCC can also serve as a therapeutic target for receptor binding proteins such as antibodies or ligands. In normal intestinal tissue, GCC is expressed on the apical side of epithelial cell tight junctions that form an impermeable barrier between the luminal environment and the vascular compartment (Almenoff et al., Mol Microbiol 8:865-873 ), Guarino et al., Dig Dis Sci 32:1017-1026(1987)). Therefore, systemic intravenous administration of GCC-binding protein therapeutics is recommended for treatment of gastrointestinal systems, including invasive or metastatic colon cancer cells, extraintestinal or metastatic colon tumors, esophageal or gastric tumors, and adenocarcinomas of the esophagogastric junction. It will have minimal effect on intestinal GCC receptors while reaching neoplastic cells. Furthermore, GCCs are internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis upon ligand binding (Buc et al. Eur J Cancer 41:1618-1627 (2005), Urbanski et al., Biochem Biophys Acta 1245:29-36 (1995). )).

[0136] A polyclonal antibody raised against the extracellular domain of GCC (Nandi et al. Protein Expr. Purif. 8:151-159 (1996)) inhibited ST peptide binding to human and rat GCC, and cGMP production could be inhibited.

[0137] GCC has been characterized as a protein involved in cancer, including colon cancer. Carrithers et al., Dis Colon Rectum 39:171-181(1996), Buc et al. Eur J Cancer 41:1618-1627(2005), Carrithers et al., Gastroenterology 107:1653-1661(1994), Urbanski et al. See also, Biochem Biophys Acta 1245:29-36 (1995).

[0138] The antigen-binding molecule therapeutics directed to GCC described herein can be used to inhibit GCC-expressing cancer cells. The anti-GCC antigen binding molecules of the invention are capable of binding human GCC. In some embodiments, anti-GCC antigen binding molecules of the invention can inhibit the binding of a ligand, such as guanylin or a thermostable enterotoxin, to GCC.

[0139] antigen binding molecule The present invention relates to anti-GCC antigen binding molecules. In some embodiments, an anti-GCC molecule of the invention causes a cellular response upon binding to GCC on a GCC-expressing cell to which it binds. In some embodiments, anti-GCC antigen binding agents of the invention may block ligand binding to GCC.

[0140] The structural unit of naturally occurring mammalian antibodies is represented by a tetramer. Each tetramer is composed of two polypeptide chain pairs, each pair having one "light" chain (approximately 25 kDa) and one "heavy" chain (approximately 50-70 kDa). The amino-terminal portion of each chain contains a variable region of approximately 100-110 or more amino acids that is primarily involved in antigen recognition. The carboxy-terminal portion of each chain defines a constant region primarily responsible for effector function. Human light chains can be classified into kappa and lambda light chains. Heavy chains can be classified as mu, delta, gamma, alpha, or epsilon, and define the antibody's isotype as IgM, IgD, IgG, IgA, and IgE, respectively. Within light and heavy chains, the variable and constant regions are joined by a "J" region of about 12 or more amino acids, and the heavy chain also includes a "D" region of about 10 or more amino acids. See generally Fundamental Immunology Ch. 7 (Paul, W., ed., 2nd ed. Raven Press, N.Y. (1989)). The variable regions of each light chain / heavy chain pair form the antibody combining site. A preferred isotype of anti-GCC antibody molecules is the IgG immunoglobulin, which can be divided into four subclasses with different gamma heavy chains: IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and IgG4. Most therapeutic antibodies are human, chimeric, or humanized antibodies of the IgG1 type. In certain embodiments, the anti-GCC antibody molecule has an IgG1 isotype.

[0141] The variable regions of each heavy and light chain pair form the antigen binding site. Therefore, an intact IgG antibody has two binding sites that are the same. However, bifunctional or bispecific antibodies are artificial hybrid constructs that have two different heavy / light chain pairs, resulting in two different binding sites.

[0142] The chains all exhibit the same general structure of relatively conserved framework regions (FRs) joined by three hypervariable regions, also called complementarity determining regions or CDRs. The double-stranded CDRs of each pair are aligned by the framework regions, allowing binding to a specific epitope. From the N-terminus to the C-terminus, both the light and heavy chains contain the domains FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3 and FR4. The assignment of amino acids to each domain can be found in Kabat Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. (1987 and 1991)) or Chothia & Lesk J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917 (1987). According to the definition of Chothia et al. Nature 342:878-883 (1989). As used herein, CDRs are referred to according to Kabat for each of the heavy chain (HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3) and light chain (LCDR1, LCDR2, LCDR3).

[0143] An anti-GCC antibody molecule can include all of the antibodies described herein or an antigen-binding subset of the CDRs or heavy chains. The amino acid sequences of the anti-GCC antigen binding agents described herein, including variable regions and CDRs, can be found in Tables 1-3.

[0144] Thus, in one embodiment, the antibody molecule comprises one or both of the following:

[0145] (a) One, two, three, or antigen-binding numbers of light chain CDRs (LCDR1, LCDR2 and / or LCDR3) of a human or murine antibody, such as an antibody derived from a human hybridoma (e.g., as described in US20180355062A1) the light chain of an anti-GCC antibody, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety). In embodiments, the CDR(s) may include an amino acid sequence of one or more or all of LCDR1-3 as follows: LCDR1, or modified LCDR1 (with 1-7 amino acids conservatively substituted). ), LCDR2, or modified LCDR2 (with 1 to 2 amino acids conservatively substituted), or LCDR3, or modified LCDR3 (with 1 to 2 amino acids conservatively substituted), and

[0146] (b) One, two, three, or antigen-binding numbers of heavy chain CDRs (HCDR1, HCDR2 and / or HCDR3) as described herein. In embodiments, the CDR(s) may include an amino acid sequence of one or more or all of HCDR1-3 as follows: HCDR1, or modified HCDR1 (with one or two amino acids conservatively substituted). ), HCDR2, or modified HCDR2 (with 1 to 4 amino acids conservatively substituted), or HCDR3, or modified HCDR3 (with 1 to 2 amino acids conservatively substituted).

[0147] In some embodiments, anti-GCC antibody molecules of the invention are capable of causing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in cells expressing GCC, such as tumor cells. Antibodies with IgG1 and IgG3 isotypes are useful for inducing effector functions in antibody-dependent cytotoxicity due to their ability to bind Fc receptors. Antibodies with IgG2 and IgG4 isotypes are useful in minimizing ADCC responses due to their reduced ability to bind Fc receptors. In a related embodiment, substitutions in the Fc region or changes in the glycosylation composition of the antibody increase the ability of the Fc receptor to recognize and bind to cells to which the anti-GCC antibody binds, for example, by growth in engineered eukaryotic cell lines. , and / or to enhance its ability to mediate cytotoxicity (e.g., publications including U.S. Pat. .276:6591-6604(2001), Lazar et al.Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.U.S.A.103:4005-4010(2006), Satoh et al.Expert Opin Biol.Ther.6:1161-1173(2006) checking). In certain embodiments, an antibody or antigen-binding fragment (eg, an antibody of human origin, a human antibody) may contain amino acid substitutions or substitutions that alter or modulate function (eg, effector function). For example, constant regions of human origin (eg, γ1 constant region, γ2 constant region) can be designed to reduce complement activation and / or Fc receptor binding. (See, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,648,260 (Winter et al.), U.S. Patent No. 5,624,821 (Winter et al.), and U.S. Patent No. 5,834,597 (Tso et al.), the entire teachings of which are herein incorporated by reference. ) Preferably, the amino acid substitution or amino acid sequence of a constant region of human origin containing the substitution is at least about 95% identical over its entire length to the amino acid sequence of an unaltered constant region of human origin; More preferably, it is at least about 99% identical over its entire length to the amino acid sequence of an unaltered constant region of human origin. Additional anti-GCC antigen binding molecules are further described in US Pat. No. 8,785,600 (Nam et al.), the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0148] In yet another embodiment, effector function can also be altered by modulating the glycosylation pattern of the antibody. By alteration is meant the deletion of one or more carbohydrate moieties found in the antibody and / or the addition of one or more glycosylation sites not present in the antibody. For example, antibodies with enhanced ADCC activity are described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0157108 (Presta), which have mature carbohydrate structures lacking fucose attached to the Fc region of the antibody. See also US Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0093621 (Kyowa Hakko Kogyo Co., Ltd). Glycofi has also developed a yeast cell line that can produce antibodies for specific glycoforms.

[0149] Additionally or alternatively, antibodies with altered glycosylation can be generated, such as hypofucosylated antibodies with reduced amounts of fucosyl residues or antibodies with increased bipartite GlcNac structures. Such altered glycosylation patterns have been demonstrated to increase the ADCC potential of antibodies. Such carbohydrate modifications can be accomplished, for example, by expressing antibodies in host cells with altered glycosylation machinery. Cells with altered glycosylation machinery have been described in the art and can be used as host cells engineered to express recombinant antibodies of the invention to produce antibodies with altered glycosylation. It is possible. For example, EP 1,176,195 by Hang et al. describes cell lines with a functionally disrupted FUT8 gene, which encodes a fucosyltransferase, so that antibodies expressed in such cell lines have low fucosyltransferases. to show the PCT publication WO03 / 035835 by Presta describes Lec13 cells, a variant CHO cell line that has a reduced ability to attach fucose to Asn(297)-linked carbohydrates, which further results in hypofucosylation of antibodies expressed in that host cell. (See also Shields, R.L. et al., 2002 J.Biol.Chem.277:26733-26740). PCT Publication WO99 / 54342 by Umana et al. states that antibodies expressed in engineered cell lines exhibit increased bipartite GlcNac structures that confer increased ADCC activity of the antibody. describes cell lines engineered to express (1,4)-N acetylglucosaminyltransferase III (GnTIII) (see also Umana et al., 1999 Nat.Biotech.17:176-180). ).

[0150] Humanized antibodies can also be made using a CDR grafting approach. Techniques for producing such humanized antibodies are known in the art. Generally, humanized antibodies will be obtained by obtaining nucleic acid sequences encoding the variable heavy and variable light chain sequences of an antibody that binds GCC, and comprising complementarity determining regions or "CDRs" in the variable heavy and variable light chain sequences. is produced by identifying and grafting the CDR nucleic acid sequences onto human framework nucleic acid sequences. (See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,225,539). The positions of CDR and framework residues can be determined (Kabat, E.A., et al. (1991) Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, Fifth Edition, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, NIH Publication No. 91-3242, and (See Chothia, C. et al. J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917 (1987)).

[0151] The anti-GCC antibody molecules described herein have the CDR amino acid sequences and CDR-encoding nucleic acid sequences listed in Tables 5 and 6. In some embodiments, the sequences of Tables 5 and 6 can be incorporated into molecules that recognize GCC for use in the therapeutic or diagnostic methods described herein. The human framework chosen is meant to be suitable for in vivo administration, ie, one that does not exhibit immunogenicity. For example, such determinations can be made by previous experience including in vivo use of such antibodies and studies of amino acid similarity. Suitable framework regions include at least about 65% of the amino acids over the length of the framework region within the amino acid sequence of an equivalent portion (e.g., framework region) of a donor antibody, e.g., an anti-GCC antibody molecule (e.g., 3G1). Antibodies of human origin may be selected that have sequence identity, preferably at least about 70%, 80%, 90% or 95% amino acid sequence identity. Amino acid sequence identity can be determined using a suitable amino acid sequence alignment algorithm, such as CLUSTAL W, using default parameters. (Thompson J.D. et al., Nucleic Acids Res.22:4673-4680(1994).)

[0152] Once the CDRs and FRs of the cloned antibody that has been humanized are identified, the amino acid sequences encoding the CDRs are identified and the corresponding nucleic acid sequences are grafted onto the selected human FRs. This can be done using known primers and linkers, the selection of which is known in the art. All CDRs for a particular human antibody can be replaced with at least some of the non-human CDRs, or only some of the CDRs can be replaced with non-human CDRs. It is only necessary to replace the number of CDRs required for binding of a humanized antibody to a given antigen. After the CDRs are grafted onto the selected human FRs, the resulting "humanized" variable heavy and variable light chain sequences are expressed to produce a humanized Fv or humanized antibody that binds GCC. Preferably, the CDR-grafted (eg, humanized) antibody binds the GCC protein with similar, substantially the same, or better affinity than the donor antibody. Typically, humanized variable heavy and light chain sequences are expressed as fusion proteins with human constant domain sequences, resulting in an intact antibody that binds GCC. However, humanized Fv antibodies that do not contain constant sequences can be produced.

[0153] Humanized antibodies in which specific amino acids have been substituted, deleted or added are also within the scope of the invention. In particular, humanized antibodies may have amino acid substitutions within the framework regions, such as to improve binding to antigen. For example, a selected few acceptor framework residues of a humanized immunoglobulin chain can be replaced with the corresponding donor amino acids. Positions for substitution include amino acid residues adjacent to or capable of interacting with the CDRs (see, eg, US Pat. No. 5,585,089 or US Pat. No. 5,859,205). The acceptor framework can be a mature human antibody framework sequence or a consensus sequence. As used herein, the term "consensus sequence" refers to the most frequently found sequence, or a sequence devised from the most common residues at each position of the sequence within the region between related family members. Point. A large number of human antibody consensus sequences are available, including consensus sequences for different subgroups of human variable regions (Kabat, E.A., et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, Fifth Edition, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services). , U.S. Government Printing Office (1991)). The Kabat database and its applications are freely available online at, for example, IgBLAST, National Center for Biotechnology Information, Bethesda, Md. (Johnson, G. and Wu, T.T., Nucleic Acids (See also Research 29:205-206 (2001)).

[0154] In certain embodiments, the GCC antibody molecule is a human anti-GCC IgG1 antibody. Because such antibodies have the desired binding to GCC molecules, any one such antibody can easily isotype switch, generating, for example, the human IgG4 isotype, but with the same variable region (specificity of the antibody). to some extent define their gender and affinity). Thus, if antibody candidates are generated that satisfy the desired "structural" attributes as described above, they will generally have at least certain additional "functional" attributes desired by isotype switching.

[0155] In some embodiments, some of the CAR compositions of the invention, including antibody fragments, are humanized while retaining high affinity for the target antigen and other favorable biological properties. According to one aspect of the invention, humanized antibodies and antibody fragments are prepared by a process of analysis of the parental sequences and various conceptual humanized products using three-dimensional models of the parental and humanized sequences. Three-dimensional immunoglobulin models are commonly available and well known to those skilled in the art. Computer programs are available that illustrate and display predicted three-dimensional conformations of selected candidate immunoglobulin sequences. Examination of these representations allows analysis of the likely role of the residues in the function of the candidate immunoglobulin sequence, eg, analysis of residues that influence the ability of the candidate immunoglobulin to bind a target antigen.

[0156] Thus, FR residues can be selected and combined from the recipient and import sequences such that the desired antibody or antibody fragment characteristic, such as high affinity for the target antigen, is achieved. Generally, CDR residues are directly and most substantially involved in influencing antigen binding.

[0157] A humanized antibody or antibody fragment may retain similar antigen specificity as the original antibody, eg, in the present invention, the ability to bind human GCC. In some embodiments, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment may have improved affinity and / or specificity of binding to human GCC.

[0158] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises one or more CDR sequences provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a heavy chain variable region having CDR1 provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a heavy chain variable region having CDR2 provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a heavy chain variable region having CDR3 provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a heavy chain variable region having CDR1, CDR2, and CDR3 provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises one or more CDR sequences provided in Table 1, and the CDR comprises 1, 2, or 3 amino acid substitutions. In one embodiment, the substitution does not adversely affect binding of the binding agent to its target.

[0159]

table 1

[0160] Anti-GCC antibodies that are not intact antibodies are also useful in the present invention. Such antibodies may be derived from any of the antibodies described above. Useful antibody molecules of this type include (i) Fab fragments, i.e. monovalent fragments consisting of VL, VH, CL and CH1 domains, (ii) F(ab') 2 fragments, i.e. bivalent fragments comprising two Fab fragments linked by a disulfide bridge in the hinge region; (iii) an Fd fragment consisting of the VH and CH1 domains; (iv) consisting of the VL and VH domains of a single arm of the antibody. Fv fragments, (v) dAb fragments consisting of a VH domain (Ward et al., Nature 341:544-546 (1989)), and (vii) single domain functional heavy chain antibodies consisting of a VHH domain (known as nanobodies). (see, e.g., Cortez-Retamozo, et al., Cancer Res. 64:2853-2857 (2004), and references cited therein), and (vii) to provide antigen-binding fragments. Includes isolated CDRs with sufficient framework, eg, one or more isolated CDRs. Furthermore, although the two domains of Fv fragments, VL and VH, are encoded by separate genes, they can be prepared using recombinant methods by pairing the VL and VH regions into monovalent molecules (single-stranded molecules). Fvs (known as scFvs) can be joined by synthetic linkers that can create them as a single protein chain (known as scFvs), as described, for example, in Bird et al. Science 242:423-426 (1988) and Huston et al. Proc. See Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:5879-5883 (1988). Such single chain antibodies are also intended to be encompassed within the term "antigen-binding fragment" of an antibody. These antibody fragments are obtained using conventional techniques known to those skilled in the art, and the fragments are screened for utility in the same manner as intact antibodies. Fv, F(ab’) 2 Antibody fragments such as and Fabs can be prepared by cleavage of intact proteins, eg, by protease or chemical cleavage.

[0161] single domain antibody Single domain antibodies (sdAbs) differ from traditional four-chain antibodies by having a single monomeric antibody variable domain. For example, camelids and sharks produce sdAbs, termed heavy chain-only antibodies (HcAbs), which naturally lack light chains. The antigen-binding fragment in each arm of a heavy chain-only camel antibody has a single heavy chain variable domain (VHH), which can have high affinity for antigen without the assistance of light chains. Camelid VHHs are known as the smallest functional antigen-binding fragments with a molecular weight of approximately 15 kD. In some embodiments, the antigen binding agent is a single human heavy chain variable domain (VH) antibody. Such binding molecules are also referred to as Humabodies® and may be used interchangeably herein. Humabody® is a registered trademark of Crescendo Biologics Ltd.

[0162] One aspect of the present application provides isolated single domain antibodies (referred to herein as "anti-GCC sdAbs") that specifically bind GCC, such as human GCC. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC sdAb modulates GCC activity. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC sdAb is an antagonist antibody. Further provided are antigen binding fragments derived from any one of the anti-GCC sdAbs described herein, and antigen binding proteins comprising any one of the anti-GCC sdAbs described herein. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC sdAb comprises one, two and / or three CDR sequences provided in Table 1. Exemplary anti-GCC sdAbs are listed in Tables 2 and 3. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC sdAb comprises a variable heavy chain provided in Table 2 or Table 3.

[0163] In some embodiments, some or all of the CDR sequences, ie, the heavy chain, can be used in another antigen-binding agent, eg, CDR-grafted, humanized, or chimeric antibody molecules. Embodiments include antibody molecules containing sufficient CDRs to enable binding to cell surface GCCs, eg, all three CDRs from one of the heavy chain variable regions described above.

[0164] In some embodiments, the CDRs, eg, all HCDRs, are embedded within human or human-derived framework region(s). Examples of human framework regions include human germline framework sequences, affinity matured (either in vivo or in vitro) human germline sequences, or synthetic human sequences, such as consensus sequences. In one embodiment, the heavy chain framework is an IgG1 or IgG2 framework.

[0165] In some embodiments, an anti-GCC antigen binding agent of the invention comprises the heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence provided in Table 2. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent is a single domain heavy chain only antibody (eg, an antigen binding agent that does not contain immunoglobulin light chains).

[0166] [Table 2]

[0167] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agents of the invention are at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97% of the VH sequences provided in Table 2. , containing heavy chain variable region amino acid sequences that are 98% or 99% identical. In some embodiments, a VH anti-GCC antigen binding agent (eg, a single domain antibody) includes a leader sequence. In some embodiments, the VH anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a leader sequence comprising MKHLWFFLLLVAAPRWVLS (SEQ ID NO: 6), MELGLSWVFLVAILEGVQC (SEQ ID NO: 7) or MEFGLSWVFLVAIIKGVQC (SEQ ID NO: 42). In some embodiments, the VH anti-GCC antigen binding agent comprises a leader sequence comprising MALPVTALLLPLALLLHAARP (SEQ ID NO: 45).

[0168] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agents of the invention are at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97% of the VH sequences provided in Table 3. , containing heavy chain variable region amino acid sequences that are 98% or 99% identical. In some embodiments, an anti-GCC antigen binding agent of the invention comprises a heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence that is identical to the VH sequence provided in Table 3.

[0169] In some embodiments, the VH anti-GCC antigen binding agent (e.g., single domain antibody) is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97% in Table 3. , 98% or 99% including the leader sequence. In some embodiments, the VH anti-GCC antigen binding agent (eg, single domain antibody) comprises a leader sequence provided in Table 3.

[0170] [Table 3-1]

[0171] [Table 3-2]

[0172] Antibody fragments for in vivo therapeutic or diagnostic use can benefit from modifications that improve their serum half-life. Suitable organic moieties intended to increase the in vivo serum half-life of antibodies include hydrophilic polymeric groups (e.g., linear or branched polymers (e.g., polyalkane glycols, e.g., polyethylene glycol, monomethoxypolyethylene glycol, etc.), carbohydrates, etc. (e.g. dextran, cellulose, polysaccharides, etc.), polymers of hydrophilic amino acids (e.g. polylysine, polyaspartic acid, etc.), polyalkane oxides and polyvinylpyrrolidone), fatty acid groups (e.g. mono- or dicarboxylic acids), fatty acids One, two or more linear or branched groups selected from ester groups, lipid groups (e.g. diacylglycerol groups, sphingolipid groups (e.g. ceramidyl)) or phospholipid groups (e.g. phosphatidylethanolamine groups) Chain moieties may be mentioned. Preferably, the organic moiety is attached to a predetermined site such that the organic moiety does not impair the function of the resulting immune complex (e.g., does not reduce antigen binding affinity) as compared to the unconjugated antibody moiety. . The organic moiety may have a molecular weight of about 500 Da to about 50,000 Da, preferably about 2000, 5000, 10,000 or 20,000 Da. Examples and methods for modifying polypeptides, such as antibodies, with organic moieties can be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. Can be found in Application Publication No. 20030026805.

[0173] chimeric antigen receptor Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are hybrid molecules containing three essential units: (1) an extracellular antigen-binding motif, (2) a linking / transmembrane motif, and (3) an intracellular T-cell signaling motif ( Long A H, Haso W M, Orentas R J.Lessons learned from a highly-active CD22-specific chimeric antigen receptor.Oncoimmunology.2013;2(4):e23621). For various embodiments of GCC-specific CARs disclosed herein, a general scheme is shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR comprises, from N-terminus to C-terminus, a signal or leader peptide, an antigen binding domain, a transmembrane and / or hinge domain, a costimulatory domain, and an intracellular domain.

[0174] The invention provides CARs (e.g., CAR polypeptides) that include an anti-GCC binding domain (e.g., a GCC binding domain as described herein), a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular signaling domain; The GCC binding domain includes heavy chain complementarity determining region 1 (HC CDR1), heavy chain complementarity determining region 2 (HC CDR2), and heavy chain complementarity determining region 2 (HC CDR2) of any anti-GCC heavy chain binding domain amino acid sequence listed in Tables 1 or 8. Contains strand complementarity determining region 3 (HC CDR3). In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR comprises, from N-terminus to C-terminus, a signal or leader peptide, anti-GCC vH, CD28 transmembrane and hinge, CD28 costimulatory domain, and CD3 zeta intracellular domain.

[0175] An antigen-binding domain can be any protein that binds to an antigen, such as monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, recombinant antibodies, human antibodies, humanized antibodies, and functional fragments thereof, such as heavy chain variable domains (VH), light chains Functional fragments including, but not limited to, single domain antibodies such as variable domains (VL) and variable domains of camelid-derived nanobodies (VHH), as well as functional fragments known in the art that function as antigen-binding domains. Another scaffold may be a protein, including, but not limited to, a recombinant fibronectin domain. In some embodiments, the antigen binding domain

[0176] The antigen-binding motif of a CAR is generally formed after a single chain fragment variable (ScFv), i.e. the minimal binding domain of an immunoglobulin (Ig) molecule or a single domain antibody (eg WO2018 / 028647A1). receptor ligands (i.e., IL-13 is designed to bind to tumor-expressed IL-13 receptors), intact immune receptors, library-derived peptides, and innate immune system effector molecules (such as NKG2D) Alternative antigen-binding motifs have also been designed, such as Significant research remains in defining the most active T cell populations to transduce with CAR vectors, determining optimal culture and expansion techniques, and defining the molecular details of the CAR protein structure itself.

[0177] The linking motif of a CAR can be a relatively stable structural domain, such as the constant domain of IgG, or it can be designed to be an extended flexible linker. In some embodiments, an anti-GCC binding domain (e.g., a polypeptide comprising a sequence provided in Table 1 or Table 7) is linked to a transmembrane domain via a linker, e.g., a linker described herein. be combined. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR comprises a (Gly4-Ser)n linker, where n is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 (SEQ ID NO: 72). In some embodiments, the linker comprises the amino acid sequence RAAA (SEQ ID NO: 53).

[0178] Structural motifs such as those derived from IgG constant domains can be used to extend the ScFv binding domain away from the T cell plasma membrane surface. This may be important for some tumor targets where the binding domain is particularly close to the tumor cell surface membrane (such as for the disialoganglioside GD2; Orentas et al., unpublished observations). To date, the signaling motifs used in CARs have always included the CD3-ζ chain, as its core motif is an important signal for T cell activation. The first reported second-generation CARs featured a CD28 signaling domain and a CD28 transmembrane sequence. This motif was similarly used in the third generation CAR containing the CD137(4-1BB) signaling motif (Zhao Y et al. J Immunol. 2009;183(9):5563-74). With the advent of new technologies, the activation of T cells by beads linked to anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies, and the presence of the classic "signal 2" from CD28, no longer needs to be encoded by the CAR itself. We found that third-generation vectors were not superior to second-generation vectors in in vitro assays when using bead activation, and they had no clear benefit over second-generation vectors in a mouse model of leukemia. (Haso W,Lee D W,Shah N N,Stetler-Stevenson M,Yuan C M,Pastan I H,Dimitrov D S,Morgan R A,FitzGerald D J,Barrett D M,Wayne A S,Mackall C L,Orentas R J.Anti-CD22-chimeric antigen receptors targeting B cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia,Blood.2013;121(7):1165-74, Kochenderfer J N et al.Blood.2012;119(12):2709-20). This is the second generation CD28 / CD3-ζ (Lee D W et al. American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting. New Orleans, La.; Dec. 7-10, 2013) and CD137 / CD3-ζ signaling type (Porter D L This is supported by the clinical success of a CD19-specific CAR in N Engl J Med.2011;365(8):725-33). In addition to CD137, other tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily members such as OX40 can also provide important sustained signals in CAR-transduced T cells (Yvon E et al. Clin Cancer Res. 2009;15(18): 5852-60). Equally important are the culture conditions under which the CAR T cell population was cultured.

[0179] T-cell-based immunotherapy has become a new frontier in the field of synthetic biology, where multiple promoters and gene products are envisioned to direct these highly potent cells to the tumor microenvironment, leading to T cell-based immunotherapy. Cells can both evade negative regulatory signals and mediate effective tumor killing. Elimination of unwanted T cells by drug-induced dimerization of inducible caspase-9 constructs with AP1903 shows one way in which a powerful switch that can control T cell populations can be initiated pharmacologically. (Di Stasi A et al.N Engl J Med.2011;365(18):1673-83). It is therefore conceivable that CAR may induce T cell activation in a manner similar to the endogenous T cell receptor, but the main obstacles to the clinical application of this technology to date are the in vivo proliferation of CAR+ T cells, It has been limited to rapid loss of cells after injection and disappointing clinical activity. Therefore, novel compositions and methods for treating cancer using approaches that can show specific and effective anti-tumor effects without the above-mentioned drawbacks (i.e. high toxicity, insufficient efficacy). There is an urgent and long-standing need in the art to find a method.

[0180] The present invention addresses these needs by providing CAR compositions and therapeutic methods that can be used to treat cancer and other diseases and / or conditions. In particular, the invention as disclosed and described herein provides CARs that can be used to treat diseases, disorders or conditions associated with dysregulated expression of GCC, which CARs Contains a GCC antigen-binding domain that exhibits high surface expression in cells and exhibits a high degree of cell lysis as well as in vivo proliferation and persistence of transduced T cells.

[0181] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC antigen binding agent is a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Characteristics of CARs include their ability to redirect T cell specificity and reactivity to selected targets in an MHC-independent manner, as well as exploiting the antigen-binding properties of monoclonal antibodies. Non-MHC-restricted antigen recognition confers on CAR-expressing T cells the ability to recognize antigen independent of antigen processing, thus circumventing the main mechanism of tumor escape. Furthermore, when expressed in T cells, CAR advantageously does not dimerize with endogenous T cell receptor (TCR) alpha and beta chains.

[0182] extracellular domain As described herein, a CAR includes a target-specific binding element (eg, at least a portion of an anti-GCC antigen binding agent), otherwise referred to as an antigen-binding domain or moiety. The choice of domain depends on the type and number of ligands that define the surface of the target cell. For example, an antigen binding domain may be selected to recognize a ligand (eg, GCC) that acts as a cell surface marker on target cells associated with a particular disease state (eg, cancer). Thus, examples of cell surface markers that can act as ligands for the antigen binding domain of CAR include those associated with viral, bacterial and parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases and cancer cells.

[0183] In some embodiments, the extracellular domain of the anti-GCC CAR comprises an antigen binding agent comprising at least one CDR provided in Table 1. In some embodiments, the extracellular domain of the anti-GCC CAR is at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96% the same as the VH amino acid sequence provided in Table 2 or Table 3. , containing variable heavy chains that are 97%, 98% or 99% identical. In some embodiments, the extracellular domain of the anti-GCC CAR comprises a variable heavy chain provided in Table 2. In some embodiments, the extracellular domain of the anti-GCC CAR comprises a variable heavy chain provided in Table 3.

[0184] transmembrane domain Regarding transmembrane domains, in various embodiments, a CAR can be designed to include a transmembrane domain that is bound to the extracellular domain of the CAR (eg, an anti-GCC antigen binding domain). A transmembrane domain includes one or more additional amino acids adjacent to the transmembrane region, e.g., one or more amino acids associated with the extracellular region of the protein from which the transmembrane was derived (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, up to 15 amino acids) and / or one or more additional amino acids associated with the intracellular region of the protein from which the transmembrane protein is derived (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, up to 15 amino acids).

[0185] In one embodiment, a transmembrane domain is used that is related to one of the other domains of the CAR. In some cases, transmembrane domains may be combined with transmembrane domains of the same or different surface membrane proteins, e.g., to minimize interactions with other members of the receptor complex. Can be selected or modified by amino acid substitutions to avoid binding. In one embodiment, the transmembrane domain is capable of homodimerizing with another CAR on the surface of a CAR-expressing cell, eg, a CART cell. In another embodiment, the amino acid sequence of the transmembrane domain may be modified or substituted to minimize interaction with the binding domain of a natural binding partner present in the same CAR-expressing cell, e.g., CART.

[0186] As described herein, CARs include transmembrane domains. Regarding transmembrane domains, CARs contain one or more transmembrane domains that are fused to the extracellular GCC antigen binding domain of the CAR. Transmembrane domains may be derived from either natural or synthetic sources. If the source is natural, the domain may be derived from any membrane-bound or transmembrane protein.

[0187] Transmembrane regions of particular use in the CARs described herein include T cell receptor alpha, beta or zeta chains, CD28, CD3 epsilon, CD45, CD4, CD5, CD8, CD9, CD16, CD22 , mesothelin, CD33, CD37, CD64, CD80, CD86, CD134, CD137, CD154 (ie, may include at least the transmembrane region(s) thereof).

[0188] Transmembrane domains may be derived from either natural or recombinant sources. If the source is natural, the domain may be derived from any membrane-bound or transmembrane protein. In one embodiment, the transmembrane domain is capable of signaling to the intracellular domain(s) whenever the CAR binds to a target. Transmembrane domains of particular use in the invention include at least, for example, the alpha, beta or zeta chains of T cell receptors, CD28, CD3 epsilon, CD45, CD4, CD5, CD8 (e.g. CD8 alpha, CD8 beta ), CD9, CD16, CD22, CD33, CD37, CD64, CD80, CD86, CD134, CD137, CD154 transmembrane domain(s). In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain includes at least a costimulatory molecule, e.g., an MHC class I molecule, a TNF receptor protein, an immunoglobulin-like protein, a cytokine receptor, an integrin, a signal transducing lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM). protein), activated NK cell receptor, BTLA, Toll ligand receptor, OX40, CD2, CD7, CD27, CD28, CD30, CD40, CDS, ICAM-1, LFA-1(CDlla / CD18), 4-1BB( CD137), B7-H3, CDS, ICAM-1, ICOS (CD278), GITR, BAFFR, LIGHT, HVEM (LIGHTR), KIRDS2, SLAMF7, NKp80 (KLRF1), NKp44, NKp30, NKp46, CD19, CD4, CD8 alpha , CD8beta, IL2Rbeta, IL2Rgamma, IL7Ralpha, ITGA4, VLA1, CD49a, ITGA4, IA4, CD49D, ITGA6, VLA-6, CD49f, ITGAD, CDlld, ITGAE, CD103, ITGAL, CDlla, LFA-1, ITGAM , CDllb, ITGAX, CDllc, ITGB1, CD29, ITGB2, CD18, LFA-1, ITGB7, NKG2D, NKG2C, TNFR2, TRANCE / RANKL, DNAM1(CD226), SLAMF4(CD244, 2B4), CD84, CD96(Tactile), CEACAM1, CRTAM, Ly9(CD229), CD160(BY55), PSGL1, CD100(SEMA4D), CD69, SLAMF6(NTB-A, Lyl08), SLAM(SLAMF1, CD150, IPO-3), BLAME(SLAMF8), SELPLG( Transmembrane region(s) of the ligand that specifically binds CD162), LTBR, ​​LAT, GADS, SLP-76, PAG / Cbp, CD19a, and CD83 may be mentioned.

[0189] In some embodiments, the CAR molecule is a T cell receptor alpha, beta or zeta chain, CD28, CD3 epsilon, CD45, CD4, CD5, CD8, CD9, CD16, CD22, CD33, CD37, CD64, It comprises a transmembrane domain of a protein selected from the group consisting of CD80, CD86, CD134, CD137 and CD154.

[0190] Alternatively, the transmembrane domain may be synthetic, in which case it will primarily contain hydrophobic residues such as leucine and valine. In some embodiments, a phenylalanine, tryptophan and valine triplet is found at each end of the synthetic transmembrane domain. Optionally, a short oligo or polypeptide linker, preferably 2-10 amino acids in length, may form a bond between the transmembrane domain and the cytoplasmic signaling domain of the CAR. In some embodiments, the linker is a glycine-serine doublet or a triple alanine linker.

[0191] In some embodiments, a transmembrane domain that is naturally associated with one of the domains of the CAR is used in addition to the transmembrane domains described above. In some embodiments, transmembrane domains minimize interactions with other members of the receptor complex, so binding of such domains with transmembrane domains of the same or different surface membrane proteins can be selected by amino acid substitution to avoid

[0192] In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain of a CAR of the invention is a CD28 transmembrane domain. In some embodiments, the CD28 transmembrane domain comprises the nucleic acid sequence of FWVLVVVGGVLACYSLLVTVAFIIFWV (SEQ ID NO: 30). In some embodiments, the CD28 transmembrane domain comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:30. In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain has at least one, two or three modifications (e.g., substitutions) of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:30, but no more than 20, 10 or 5 modifications (e.g. , substitutions) or having at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% identity with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:30.

[0193] In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain can be joined to the extracellular region of the CAR, eg, the antigen binding domain of the CAR, by a hinge, eg, a hinge derived from a human protein. For example, in one embodiment, the hinge can be a human Ig (immunoglobulin) hinge, such as an IgG4 hinge, or a CD8a hinge.

[0194] In a CAR, a spacer domain, also called a hinge domain, can be placed between the extracellular domain and the transmembrane domain, or between the intracellular domain and the transmembrane domain. Spacer domain refers to any oligopeptide or polypeptide that functions to link a transmembrane domain with an extracellular domain and / or a transmembrane domain with an intracellular domain. The spacer domain contains at most 300 amino acids, preferably 10-100 amino acids, most preferably 25-50 amino acids.

[0195] In some embodiments, the linker may include a spacer element that, if present, increases the size of the linker such that the distance between the effector molecule or detectable marker and the antibody or antigen-binding fragment is increased. Exemplary spacers are known to those skilled in the art and include U.S. Patent Nos. 7,964,566; 7,498,298; No. 5,665,860, No. 5,663,149, No. 5,635,483, No. 5,599,902, No. 5,554,725, No. 5,530,097, No. 5,521,284, No. 5,504,191, No. 5,410,024, No. 5, 138,036 No. 5,076,973, No. 4,986,988, No. 4,978,744, No. 4,879,278, No. 4,816,444, and No. 4,486,414, as well as U.S. Pat. (incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0196] The spacer domain preferably has a sequence that promotes binding of CAR to antigen and enhances signal transduction into cells. Examples of amino acids expected to promote binding include the charged amino acid cysteine, as well as the potential glycosylation sites serine and threonine, which are used as the amino acids that make up the spacer domain. obtain.

[0197] In some embodiments, the CAR includes a hinge domain. In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises the nucleic acid sequence of IEVMYPPPYLDNEKSNGTIIHVKGKHLCPSPLFPGPSKP (SEQ ID NO: 29). In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:29. In some embodiments, the hinge domain has at least one, two, or three modifications (e.g., substitutions) of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:29, but no more than twenty, ten, or five modifications (e.g., substitution) or a sequence having 95 to 99% identity with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 29.

[0198] In some embodiments, the CAR includes a CD8 hinge domain. In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises the amino acid sequence TTTPAPRPPTPAPTIASQPLSLRPEACRPAAGGAVHTRGLDFACD (SEQ ID NO: 5). In some embodiments, the CAR includes a CD8 transmembrane domain. In some embodiments, the transmembrane domain comprises the amino acid sequence IYIWAPLAGTCGVLLLSLVITLYC (SEQ ID NO:2). In some embodiments, the hinge and transmembrane domain are derived from the same molecule. In other embodiments, the hinge and transmembrane domains are derived from different molecules (eg, CD8 fused to CD28). In some embodiments, the CAR includes a hinge domain. In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises the nucleic acid sequence of IEVMYPPPYLDNEKSNGTIIHVKGKHLCPSPLFPGPSKPFWVLVVVGGVLACYSLLVTVAFIIFWV (SEQ ID NO: 31). In some embodiments, the hinge domain comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:31. In some embodiments, the hinge domain has at least one, two, or three modifications (e.g., substitutions) of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:31, but no more than twenty, ten, or five modifications (e.g., substitutions).

[0199] In one embodiment, the CAR includes a tag sequence encoding a cleavage sequence for epidermal growth factor receptor (tEGFR). In some embodiments, the tEGFR tag comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 43, or a sequence having at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% identity thereto.

[0200] intracellular domain The cytoplasmic or otherwise intracellular signaling domain of the CAR is involved in the activation of at least one of the normal effector functions of the immune cell in which the CAR is located. The term "effector function" refers to a specialized function of a cell. For example, the effector function of a T cell can be a cytolytic activity or a helper activity, including the secretion of cytokines. Accordingly, the term "intracellular signaling domain" refers to a portion of a protein that transmits effector function signals and causes the cell to perform specialized functions. Generally, the entire intracellular signaling domain can be used, but in many cases it is not necessary to use the entire chain. To the extent that a cleavage portion of an intracellular signaling domain is used, such cleavage portion may be used in place of the intact chain as long as it transduces an effector function signal. Thus, the term intracellular signaling domain is meant to include any truncated portion of the intracellular signaling domain sufficient to transduce an effector function signal.

[0201] Examples of intracellular signaling domains for use in CARs include cytoplasmic sequences of T cell receptors (TCRs) and co-receptors that act in concert to initiate signal transduction after antigen receptor binding. as well as any derivatives or variants of those sequences and any synthetic sequences that have the same functional capabilities. Signals generated by the TCR alone are insufficient for complete activation of T cells; secondary or costimulatory signals are also required. T cell activation is therefore dependent on two distinct classes of cytoplasmic signaling sequences: those that initiate antigen-dependent primary activation by the TCR (primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences) and those that act in an antigen-independent manner and act in a secondary manner. can be said to be mediated by sequences that provide secondary or costimulatory signals (secondary cytoplasmic signaling sequences).

[0202] Primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences control the primary activation of the TCR complex either in a stimulatory or inhibitory manner. The primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences that act in a stimulatory manner may contain a signaling motif known as an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif or ITAM. In some embodiments, the ITAM-containing domain within the CAR recapitulates primary TCR signaling independent of the endogenous TCR complex. In one aspect, the primary signal is initiated, for example, by the binding of a TCR / CD3 complex to a peptide-loaded MHC molecule, and mediates a T cell response including, but not limited to, proliferation, activation, differentiation, etc. bring. The primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences (also referred to as "primary signaling domains") that act in a stimulatory manner may contain signaling motifs known as immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs or ITAMs.

[0203] Examples of ITAM-containing primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences that have particular use in the CARs disclosed herein include TCR zeta (CD3 zeta), FcR gamma, FcR beta, CD3 gamma, CD3 delta, CD3 epsilon, CD5, Examples include those derived from CD22, CD79a, CD79b, and CD66d. Specific non-limiting examples of ITAM include amino acid numbers 51-164 of CD3.zeta. (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--932170.1), Fc.epsilon.RI.gamma. .--004097.1) amino acid numbers 45-86, Fc. epsilon.RI.beta. (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--000130.1) amino acid numbers 201-244, CD3.gamma. .--000064.1) amino acid numbers 139-182, CD3.delta. (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--000723.1) amino acid numbers 128-171, CD3.epsilon. (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--000724.1) ) amino acid numbers 153-207, CD5 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--055022.2) amino acid numbers 402-495, 0022 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--001762.2) amino acid numbers 707-847, CD79a ( Amino acid numbers 166-226 of NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--001774.1), amino acid numbers 182-229 of CD79b (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--000617.1), and CD66d (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.-- 001806.2) having the sequence of amino acid numbers 177 to 252, as well as variants thereof that have the same functions as these peptides. Amino acid numbers based on NCBI RefSeq ID or GenBank amino acid sequence information described herein are numbered based on the total length of each protein precursor (including signal peptide sequence, etc.).

[0204] In embodiments, the intracellular signaling domain transmits effector function signals and causes the cell to perform specialized functions. Although the entire intracellular signaling domain can be used, in many cases it is not necessary to use the entire chain. To the extent that a cleavage portion of an intracellular signaling domain is used, such cleavage portion may be used in place of the intact chain as long as it transduces an effector function signal. Thus, the term intracellular signaling domain is meant to include any truncated portion of the intracellular signaling domain sufficient to transduce an effector function signal.

[0205] The intracellular signaling domain generates signals that promote immune effector functions of CAR-containing cells, eg, CART cells. For example, examples of immune effector functions of CART cells include helper activities, including cytolytic activity and secretion of cytokines.

[0206] In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain may include a primary intracellular signaling domain. Exemplary primary intracellular signaling domains include those derived from molecules involved in primary stimulation or antigen-dependent simulation. In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain may include a costimulatory intracellular domain. Exemplary costimulatory intracellular signaling domains include those derived from costimulatory signals or molecules involved in antigen-independent stimulation. For example, in the case of CART, the primary intracellular signaling domain may include cytoplasmic sequences from a T cell receptor, and the costimulatory intracellular signaling domain may include cytoplasmic sequences from a coreceptor or costimulatory molecule.

[0207] In some embodiments, the primary cytoplasmic signaling sequences include CD3zeta, FcRgamma, FcRbeta, CD3gamma, CD3delta, CD3epsilon, CD5, CD22, CD79a, CD79b, CD278 (also known as "ICOS"). ), FceRI, CD66d, DAP10 and DAP12. In one embodiment, the cytoplasmic signaling molecule within the CAR comprises a cytoplasmic signaling sequence derived from CD3 zeta.

[0208] In one embodiment, the primary signaling domain comprises a modified ITAM domain, eg, a mutant ITAM domain with altered (eg, increased or decreased) activity when compared to a native ITAM domain. In one embodiment, the primary signaling domain comprises a modified ITAM-containing primary intracellular signaling domain, eg, an optimized and / or truncated ITAM-containing primary intracellular signaling domain. In one embodiment, the primary signaling domain comprises one, two, three, four or more ITAM motifs.

[0209] In some embodiments, the intracellular domain of the CAR comprises a CD3 zeta signaling domain alone or in combination with any other desired cytoplasmic domain(s) useful in the context of the CAR. can be designed. For example, the intracellular domain of the CAR can include a CD3 zeta chain portion and a costimulatory signaling region. Co-stimulatory signaling region refers to the part of the CAR that contains the intracellular domain of costimulatory molecules. Co-stimulatory molecules are cell surface molecules other than antigen receptors or their ligands that are necessary for the efficient response of lymphocytes to antigens. Examples of such stimulatory cell molecules include CD27, CD28, 4-1BB (CD137), OX40, CD30, CD40, PD-1, ICOS, lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), CD2, CD7. , LIGHT, NKG2C, B7-H3, and a ligand that specifically binds to CD83. In some embodiments, the costimulatory domain is of a protein selected from the group consisting of OX40, CD2, CD27, CD28, CDS, ICAM-1, LFA-1 (CDlla / CD18) and 4-1BB (CD137). Contains a functional signaling domain.

[0210] Specific non-limiting examples of such costimulatory molecules include amino acid numbers 236-351 of CD2 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--001758.2), CD4 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--000607.1) amino acid numbers 421-458, CD5 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--055022.2) amino acid numbers 402-495, CD8.alpha. (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--001759.3) amino acid numbers 207-235, Amino acid numbers 196-210 of CD83 (GenBank:AAA35664.1), amino acid numbers 181-220 of CD28 (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--006130.1), CD137 (4-1BB, NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.-- Amino acid numbers 214-255 of CD134 (OX40, NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--003318.1), and amino acid numbers 166-277 of ICOS (NCBI RefSeq:NP.sub.--036224.1) 199 sequences, as well as variants thereof that have the same functions as these peptides. Therefore, although the disclosure herein is primarily exemplified by 4-1BB as a costimulatory signaling element, other costimulatory elements are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0211] The intracellular signaling domain of the CAR may comprise a primary signaling domain, e.g., the CD3 zeta signaling domain alone, or any other desired intracellular signaling useful in the context of the CAR of the invention. Can be combined with domain(s). For example, the intracellular signaling domain of a CAR can include a primary signaling domain, eg, a CD3 zeta chain portion, and a costimulatory signaling domain. Co-stimulatory signaling domain refers to the part of the CAR that contains the intracellular domain of costimulatory molecules. Co-stimulatory molecules are cell surface molecules other than antigen receptors or their ligands that are necessary for the efficient response of lymphocytes to antigens. Examples of such molecules include MHC class I molecules, TNF receptor proteins, immunoglobulin-like proteins, cytokine receptors, integrins, signal transducing lymphocyte activation molecules (SLAM proteins), activated NK cell receptors, BTLA , Toll ligand receptor, OX40, CD2, CD7, CD27, CD28, CD30, CD40, CDS, ICAM-1, LFA-1(CDlla / CD18), 4-1BB(CD137), B7-H3, CDS, ICAM- 1, ICOS (CD278), GITR, BAFFR, LIGHT, HVEM (LIGHTR), KIRDS2, SLAMF7, NKp80 (KLRF1), NKp44, NKp30, NKp46, CD19, CD4, CD8 alpha, CD8 beta, IL2R beta, IL2R gamma, IL7R Alpha, ITGA4, VLAl, CD49a, ITGA4, IA4, CD49D, ITGA6, VLA-6, CD49f, ITGAD, CDlld, ITGAE, CD103, ITGAL, CDlla, LFA-1, ITGAM, CDllb, GG AC, CDllc, ITGB1, CD29 , ITGB2, CD18, LFA-1, ITGB7, NKG2D, NKG2C, TNFR2, TRANCE / RANKL, DNAM1(CD226), SLAMF4(CD244, 2B4), CD84, CD96(Tactile), CEACAM1, CRTAM, Ly9(CD229), CD160 (BY55), PSGL1, CD100 (SEMA4D), CD69, SLAMF6 (NTB-A, Lyl08), SLAM (SLAMF1, CD150, IPO-3), BLAME (SLAMF8), SELPLG (CD162), LTBR, ​​LAT, GADS, SLP Examples include ligands that specifically bind to -76, PAG / Cbp, CD19a, and CD83. For example, CD27 costimulation has been demonstrated to enhance the proliferation, effector function, and survival of human CART cells in vitro and enhances the persistence and antitumor activity of human T cells in vivo (Song et al. Blood.2012;119(3):696-706). The intracellular signaling sequences within the cytoplasmic portion of the CAR of the invention may be linked to each other randomly or in a specific order.

[0212] The cytoplasmic signaling sequences within the cytoplasmic signaling portion of the CAR may be linked together in random or specific order. Optionally, short oligo or polypeptide linkers, preferably 2 to 10 amino acids in length, may form the bond. In some embodiments, the linker is a glycine-serine doublet or a triple alanine linker.

[0213] In some embodiments, the intracellular domain is designed to include a CD28 costimulatory signaling domain. In some embodiments, the intracellular domain of the CAR comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to RSKRSRLLHSDYMNMTPRRPGPTRKHYQPYAPPRDFAAYRS (SEQ ID NO: 32).

[0214] In some embodiments, the intracellular domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a CD28 signaling domain. In some embodiments, the intracellular domain comprises CD3 zeta with one or more engineered immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs). In some embodiments, the intracellular domain comprises CD3 zeta having an unmodified ITAM in the first of three immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs), and altered ITAMs in the second and third positions. (named "1XX"). In some embodiments, the intracellular domain of the CAR comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to RVKFSRSADAPAYQQGQNQLYNELNLGRREEYDVLDKRRGRDPEMGGKPRRKNPQEGLFNELQKDKMAEAFSEIGMKGERRRGKGHDGLFQGLSTATKDTFDALHMQALPPR (SEQ ID NO: 33).

[0215] In another embodiment, the intracellular domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a 4-1BB signaling domain. In yet another embodiment, the intracellular domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a CD28 and 4-1BB signaling domain.

[0216] In some embodiments, the intracellular domain of the CAR is designed to include a 4-1BB signaling domain and a CD3zeta signaling domain, and the 4-1BB signaling domain is KRGRKKLLYIFKQPFMRPVQTTQEEDGCSCRFPEEEEGGCEL (SEQ ID NO:3 ), including The CD3 zeta signaling domain is RVKFSRSADAPAYKQGQNQLYNELNLGRREEYDVLDKRRGRDPEMGGKPRRKNPQEGLYNELQKDKMAEAYSEIGMKGERRRGKGHDGLYQGLSTATKDTYDALHMQALPPR (SEQ ID NO: 4) or RVKFSRSADAPAYQQGQNQLYNELNLGRREEYDVLDKRRGRDPEMGGKPRRKNPQEGLYNELQKDKMAEAYSEIGMKGERRRGKGHDGLYQGLSTATKDTYDALHMQALPPR (SEQ ID NO: 71).

[0217] In some embodiments, CAR domains are joined by a polypeptide linker. For example, a polypeptide linker can be 2 to 10 amino acids long (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 amino acids) and can form a bond between intracellular signaling sequences. . In one embodiment, a glycine-serine doublet may be used as a suitable linker. In some embodiments, a single amino acid, eg, alanine, glycine, may be used as a suitable linker.

[0218] In one aspect, the intracellular signaling domain is designed to include two or more, eg, two, three, four, five, or more costimulatory signaling domains. In one embodiment, the two or more, e.g., two, three, four, five, or more costimulatory signaling domains are separated by a linker molecule, e.g., a linker molecule described herein. be done. In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain comprises two costimulatory signaling domains. In some embodiments, the linker molecule is a glycine residue. In some embodiments, the linker is an alanine residue.

[0219] In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a CD28 signaling domain. In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a 4-1BB signaling domain.

[0220] In one embodiment, the intracellular signaling domain is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a CD27 signaling domain. In one embodiment, the intracellular is designed to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and a CD28 signaling domain. In one embodiment, the intracellular is engineered to include a CD3 zeta signaling domain and an ICOS signaling domain.

[0221] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to the amino acid sequence provided in Table 4. Contains a certain amino acid sequence.

[0222] [Table 4-1]

[0223] [Table 4-2]

[0224] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:47. include.

[0225] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:48. include.

[0226] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:49. include.

[0227] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:50. include.

[0228] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:51. include.

[0229] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR has an amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO:52. include.

[0230] Functional characteristics of CAR The functional portions of the CARs disclosed herein are also expressly included within the scope of the present invention. The term "functional portion" when used in connection with a CAR refers to any portion or fragment of one or more of the CARs disclosed herein, which portion or fragment is Retains the biological activity of the CAR (parent CAR). A functional portion includes, for example, a portion of a CAR that retains the ability to recognize target cells or to detect, treat, or prevent disease to a similar, comparable, or higher degree than the parent CAR. With respect to a parent CAR, a functional moiety can comprise, for example, about 10%, 25%, 30%, 50%, 68%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or more of the parent CAR.

[0231] A functional moiety may include additional amino acids at the amino or carboxy terminus, or at both termini, of the moiety that are not found in the amino acid sequence of the parent CAR. Desirably, the additional amino acids do not interfere with the biological function of the functional moiety, such as target cell recognition, cancer detection, cancer treatment or prevention. More desirably, the additional amino acids enhance biological activity when compared to that of the parent CAR.

[0232] Functional variants of the CARs disclosed herein are included within the scope of this disclosure. The term "functional variant" as used herein refers to a CAR, polypeptide, or protein that has substantial or significant sequence identity or similarity to a parent CAR, of which a functional variant is It retains the biological activity of its variant CAR. Functional variants include, for example, variants of the CARs described herein (parental CARs) that retain the ability to recognize target cells to a similar degree, to the same degree, or to a higher degree than the parent CAR. With respect to a parent CAR, a functional variant can be, for example, at least about 30%, 50%, 75%, 80%, 90%, 98% or more identical in amino acid sequence to the parent CAR.

[0233] A functional variant can, for example, include the amino acid sequence of a parent CAR with at least one conservative amino acid substitution. Alternatively or in addition, a functional variant may include the amino acid sequence of a parent CAR with at least one non-conservative amino acid substitution. In that case, it is preferred that the non-conservative amino acid substitutions do not interfere with or inhibit the biological activity of the functional variant. Non-conservative amino acid substitutions may enhance the biological activity of a functional variant such that the biological activity of the functional variant is increased when compared to the parent CAR.

[0234] Amino acid substitutions in the CAR are preferably conservative amino acid substitutions. Conservative amino acid substitutions are known in the art, in which one amino acid with certain physical and / or chemical properties is replaced with another amino acid with the same or similar chemical or physical properties. Contains amino acid substitutions. For example, a conservative amino acid substitution is an acidic / loaded polar amino acid (e.g., Asp or Glu) that is replaced with another acidic / loaded polar amino acid, a nonpolar side that is replaced with another amino acid that has a nonpolar side chain. Amino acids with chains (e.g. Ala, Gly, Val, He, Leu, Met, Phe, Pro, Trp, Cys, Val, etc.), basic / positively polar which are substituted with another basic / positively polar amino acid Amino acids (e.g. Lys, His, Arg, etc.), uncharged amino acids with a polar side chain that are substituted with another uncharged amino acid with a polar side chain (e.g. Asn, Gin, Ser, Thr, Tyr, etc.), beta Amino acids with an aromatic side chain are substituted with another amino acid with a beta branched side chain (e.g., He, Thr, and Val); Amino acids with an aromatic side chain are substituted with another amino acid with an aromatic side chain (eg, His, Phe, Trp, and Tyr).

[0235] The CAR may consist essentially of the particular amino acid sequence or sequences described herein, such that other components, such as other amino acids, do not substantially alter the biological activity of the functional variant.

[0236] CARs (including functional portions and functional variants) are characterized by their biological activity, such as the ability to specifically bind antigens, the ability to detect diseased cells in mammals, etc. or may be of any length, ie, may contain any number of amino acids, provided that it retains the ability to treat or prevent disease in a mammal, etc. For example, a CAR can be about 50 to about 5000 amino acids in length, e.g. It can be an amino acid length, etc.

[0237] CARs (including functional portions and functional variants of the invention) may include synthetic amino acids in place of one or more naturally occurring amino acids. Such synthetic amino acids are known in the art and include, for example, aminocyclohexanecarboxylic acid, norleucine, -amino n-decanoic acid, homoserine, S-acetylaminomethyl-cysteine, trans-3- and trans -4-Hydroxyproline, 4-aminophenylalanine, 4-nitrophenylalanine, 4-chlorophenylalanine, 4-carboxyphenylalanine, β-phenylserine β-hydroxyphenylalanine, phenylglycine, a-naphthylalanine, cyclohexylalanine, cyclohexylglycine, indoline -2-carboxylic acid, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid, aminomalonic acid, aminomalonic acid monoamide, N'-benzyl-N'-methyl-lysine, N',N'-dibenzyl -lysine, 6-hydroxylysine, omitin, -aminocyclopentanecarboxylic acid, a-aminocyclohexanecarboxylic acid, a-aminocycloheptanecarboxylic acid, a-(2-amino-2-norbornane)-carboxylic acid, γ-diamino Mention may be made of butyric acid, β-diaminopropionic acid, homophenylalanine, and a-tert-butylglycine.

[0238] CARs (including functional moieties and functional variants) can be glycosylated, amidated, carboxylated, phosphorylated, esterified, N-acylated, cyclized, e.g. by disulfide bridges, or converted and / or into acid addition salts. It may optionally be dimerized or polymerized or complexed.

[0239] Substitutions and variants In some embodiments, amino acid sequence variants of the antibodies provided herein are contemplated. For example, it may be desirable to improve the binding affinity and / or other biological properties of antibodies. Amino acid sequence variants of antibodies can be prepared by introducing appropriate modifications into the nucleic acid sequence encoding the antibody or by peptide synthesis. Such modifications include, for example, deletions from, and / or insertions into, and / or substitutions of residues within the amino acid sequence of the antibody. Any combination of deletions, insertions, and substitutions may be made to arrive at the final construct, provided that the final construct has the desired properties, such as antigen binding.

[0240] a) Substitution, insertion and deletion variants In some embodiments, antibody variants with one or more amino acid substitutions are provided. Target sites for substitution mutagenesis include HVR and FR. Further discussion regarding classes of amino acid side chains is provided below. Amino acid substitutions can be introduced into antibodies of interest and the products screened for desired activities, eg, retention / improvement of antigen binding, reduction of immunogenicity, or improvement of ADCC or CDC.

[0241] Amino acids may be grouped by common side chain properties:

[0242] (1) Hydrophobicity: norleucine, Met, Ala, Val, Leu, Ile,

[0243] (2) Neutral hydrophilicity: Cys, Ser, Thr, Asn, Gln,

[0244] (3) Acidic: Asp, Glu,

[0245] (4) Basic: His, Lys, Arg,

[0246] (5) Residues that affect chain orientation: Gly, Pro,

[0247] (6) Aromatic: Trp, Tyr, Phe.

[0248] A non-conservative substitution would involve exchanging a member of one of these classes for another.

[0249] In some embodiments, the antigen binding domain is humanized. When a non-human antibody is humanized, specific sequences or regions of the antibody are modified to increase its similarity to antibodies or fragments thereof naturally produced in humans. In one aspect, the antigen binding domain is humanized. Humanized antibodies (or antigen-binding fragments) can be made using a variety of techniques known in the art, such as CDR grafting (e.g., European Patent No. EP 239,400, International Publication No. WO 91 / 09967). , and U.S. Pat. EP592,106 and EP519,596, Padlan, 1991, Molecular Immunology, 28(4 / 5):489-498, Studnicka et al., 1994, Protein Engineering, 7(6):805-814, and Roguska et al., 1994, PNAS, 91:969-973 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), chain shuffling (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,565,332) (incorporated herein by reference in its entirety)), as well as, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2005 / 0042664, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. International Publication No. WO9317105, Tan et al., J. Immunol., 169:1119-25 (2002), Caldas et al., Protein Eng., 13(5):353-60 (2000), Morea et al. ,Methods,20(3):267-79(2000),Baca et al.,J.Biol.Chem.,272(16):10678-84(1997),Roguska et al.,Protein Eng.,9( 10):895-904(1996), Couto et al., Cancer Res.,55(23 Supp):5973s-5977s(1995), Couto et al.,Cancer Res.,55(8):1717-22( 1995), Sandhu J S, Gene, 150(2):409-10(1994), and Pedersen et al., J. Mol. Biol., 235(3):959-73(1994) (each in its entirety (incorporated herein by reference). In many cases, framework residues in the framework regions will be replaced with corresponding residues from the CDR donor antibody to alter, eg, improve antigen binding. These framework substitutions, e.g. conservative substitutions, can be made using methods well known in the art, e.g. modeling the interaction of CDRs with framework residues to identify framework residues important for antigen binding. and by sequence comparison to identify rare framework residues at specific positions. (See, e.g., Queen et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,089, and Riechmann et al., 1988, Nature, 332:323, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.)

[0250] A humanized antibody or antibody fragment has one or more amino acid residues remaining in it from a non-human source. These non-human amino acid residues are often referred to as "import" residues, which are typically obtained from "import" variable domains. As provided herein, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment comprises one or more CDRs from a non-human immunoglobulin molecule and framework regions, wherein the amino acid residues contained in the framework are completely or Most are derived from the human germline. Multiple techniques for humanizing antibodies or antibody fragments are well known in the art.

[0251] One type of substitution variant involves replacing one or more hypervariable region residues of a parent antibody (eg, a humanized or human antibody). Generally, the resulting variant(s) that are selected for further study will be altered (e.g., improved) in certain biological properties compared to the parent antibody (e.g., increased affinity, improved immunity, etc.). the parent antibody) and / or substantially retain certain biological properties of the parent antibody. Exemplary substitution variants are affinity matured antibodies, which may be conveniently produced using, for example, phage display-based affinity maturation techniques, such as those described herein. Briefly, one or more HVR residues are mutated and, once the variant antibodies are displayed on phage, they are screened for specific biological activity (eg, binding affinity).

[0252] Modifications (eg, substitutions) may be made in the HVR, eg, to improve antibody affinity. Such modifications may affect HVR "hot spots," i.e., residues encoded by codons that are mutated with high frequency during somatic cell maturation processes (e.g., Chowdhury, Methods Mol. Biol. 207:179-196 (2008)). ), and / or SDR (a-CDR), and the resulting variant VH or VL is tested for binding affinity. Affinity maturation by construction and reselection from a secondary library is described, for example, in Hoogenboom et al., Methods in Molecular Biology 178:1-37 (O'Brien et al., ed., Human Press, Totowa, NJ, (2001)). In some embodiments of affinity maturation, diversity is introduced into variable genes that are selected for maturation by any of a variety of methods (e.g., error-prone PCR, chain shuffling, or oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis). be done. A secondary library is then created. The library is then screened to identify any antibody variants with the desired affinity. Another method of introducing diversity involves an HVR-specific approach in which several HVR residues (eg, 4-6 residues at a time) are randomized. HVR residues involved in antigen binding may be specifically identified using, for example, alanine scanning mutagenesis or modeling. In many cases, CDR-H3 and CDR-L3 are specifically targeted.

[0253] In some embodiments, substitutions, insertions, or deletions may be made within one or more HVRs so long as such modifications do not substantially reduce the ability of the antibody to bind antigen. For example, conservative modifications (eg, conservative substitutions as provided herein) that do not substantially reduce binding affinity may be made in the HVR. Such modifications may be outside of HVR "hot spots" or CDRs. In some embodiments of the variant VH sequences provided above, each HVR is either unaltered or contains one, two or no more than three amino acid substitutions.

[0254] A useful method for identifying residues or regions of antibodies that can be targeted for mutagenesis is "alanine scanning mutagenesis," as described by Cunningham and Wells (1989) Science, 244:1081-1085. being called. The method involves identifying residues or groups of target residues (e.g., charged residues such as Arg, Asp, His, Lys, and Glu) to identify neutral or negatively charged amino acids (e.g., alanine or polyalanine). to determine whether it affects the interaction between the antibody and the antigen. Additional substitutions may be introduced at amino acid positions that exhibit functional sensitivity to the first substitution. Alternatively, or in addition, crystal structures of antigen-antibody complexes to identify points of contact between antibodies and antigens. Such contact residues and adjacent residues may be targeted or eliminated as candidates for substitution. Variants may be screened to determine whether they contain the desired property.

[0255] Amino acid sequence insertions include sequences of single or multiple amino acid residues, as well as amino-terminal and / or carboxyl-terminal fusions, ranging in length from one residue to polypeptides containing 100 or more residues. An example is inner insertion. Examples of terminal insertions include antibodies with an N-terminal methionyl residue. Other insertional variants of antibody molecules include fusions of the N-terminus or C-terminus of the antibody with enzymes (eg, for ADEPT) or with polypeptides that increase the serum half-life of the antibody.

[0256] b) Glycosylation variant In some embodiments, the antibodies provided herein are altered to increase or decrease the degree to which the antibody is glycosylated. Addition or deletion of glycosylation sites to an antibody can be conveniently made by changing the amino acid sequence so that one or more glycosylation sites are created or removed.

[0257] If the antibody includes an Fc region, the carbohydrates attached to it may be varied. Natural antibodies produced by mammalian cells typically contain branched, biantennary oligosaccharides that are commonly linked by an N-linkage to Asn297 of the CH2 domain of the Fc region. See, eg, Wright et al. TIBTECH 15:26-32 (1997). Oligosaccharides can include various carbohydrates such as mannose, N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), galactose, and sialic acid, as well as fucose attached to GlcNAc in the "stem" of the biantennary oligosaccharide structure. . In some embodiments, oligosaccharide modifications in the antibodies of the present application may be performed to create antibody variants with certain improved properties.

[0258] In some embodiments, antibody variants are provided with carbohydrate structures that lack fucose attached (directly or indirectly) to the Fc region. For example, the amount of fucose in such antibodies may be 1% to 80%, 1% to 65%, 5% to 65%, or 20% to 40%. The amount of fucose is determined by the amount of all sugar structures (e.g. complex, hybrid and high mannose structures) bound to Asn297 when measured by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, for example as described in WO2008 / 077546. It is determined by calculating the average amount of fucose within the sugar chain at Asn297 compared to the total. Asn297 refers to the asparagine residue located at approximately position 297 (EU numbering of Fc region residues) within the Fc region, but Asn297 also refers to the asparagine residue located at approximately position 297 (EU numbering of Fc region residues), due to minor sequence diversity in antibodies. It may also be located upstream or downstream by ±3 amino acids, ie, between positions 294 and 300. Such fucosylation variants may have improved ADCC function. See, for example, US Patent Publications No. US2003 / 0157108 (Presta, L.), US2004 / 0093621 (Kyowa Hakko Kogyo Co., Ltd.). Examples of publications related to "defucosylated" or "fucose-deficient" antibody variants include US2003 / 0157108, WO2000 / 61739, WO2001 / 29246, US2003 / 0115614, US2002 / 0164328, US2004 / 0093621, US2004 / 0132140, US2004 / 0110704, US2004 / 0110282, US2004 / 0109865, WO2003 / 085119, WO2003 / 084570, WO2005 / 035586, WO2005 / 035778, WO2005 / 053742, WO2002 / 031140, Okazaki et al.J.Mol.Biol.336:1239- 1249 (2004), Yamane-Ohnuki et al.Biotech.Bioeng.87:614 (2004). An example of a cell line capable of producing defucosylated antibodies is Lec13 CHO cells, which lack protein fucosylation (Ripka et al. Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 249:533-545 (1986), U.S. patent application no. No. 0157108A1, Presta, L., and WO2004 / 056312A1, Adams et al.), as well as knockout cell lines, such as alpha-1,6-fucosyltransferase gene, FUT8 knockout CHO cells (e.g., Yamane-Ohnuki et al. Biotech.Bioeng.87:614(2004), Kanda, Y. et al., Biotechnol.Bioeng.,94(4):680-688(2006), and WO2003 / 085107).

[0259] The antibody variant further has a bipartite oligosaccharide, for example, where the biantennary oligosaccharide attached to the Fc region of the antibody is bisected by GlcNAc. Such antibody variants may have reduced fucosylation and / or improved ADCC function. Examples of such antibody variants are described, for example, in WO2003 / 011878 (Jean-Mairet et al.), US Pat. No. 6,602,684 (Umana et al.), and US2005 / 0123546 (Umana et al.). . Antibody variants having at least one galactose residue within the oligosaccharide attached to the Fc region are also provided. Such antibody variants may have improved CDC function. Such antibody variants are described, for example, in WO1997 / 30087 (Patel et al.), WO1998 / 58964 (Raju, S.), and WO1999 / 22764 (Raju, S.).

[0260] CARs (including functional parts and functional variants thereof) may be obtained by methods known in the art. CARs may be made by any suitable method of making polypeptides or proteins. Suitable methods for de novo synthesis of polypeptides and proteins are described in references, eg Chan et al., Fmoc Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis, Oxford University Press, Oxford, United Kingdom, 2000, Peptide and Protein Drug Analysis, ed. Reid , R., Marcel Dekker, Inc., 2000, Epitope Mapping, ed. Westwood et al., Oxford University Press, Oxford, United Kingdom, 2001, and US Patent No. 5,449,752. Polypeptides and proteins can also be produced recombinantly using the nucleic acids described herein using standard recombinant methods. For example, Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 3rd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. 2001, and Ausubel et al., Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, Greene Publishing Associates and John Wiley&Sons, NY. , 1994. Additionally, some of the CARs (including functional portions and functional variants thereof) may be isolated and / or purified from sources such as plants, bacteria, insects, mammals, such as rats, humans, etc. Isolation and purification methods are well known in the art. Alternatively, the CARs described herein (including functional portions and functional variants thereof) can be commercially synthesized by companies. In this regard, CARs may be synthetic, recombinant, isolated, and / or purified.

[0261] Detectable markers and tags The CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, monoclonal antibody, antigen-binding fragment thereof, is specific for one or more of the antigens disclosed herein and can be further expressed (eg, co-expressed) with a tag protein. In some embodiments, the Furin recognition site and downstream 2A self-cleaving peptide sequence are designed for simultaneous bicistronic expression of the tag and CAR sequences. In some embodiments, the 2A sequence comprises the nucleic acid sequence of GSGATNFSLLKQAGDVEENPGP (SEQ ID NO: 44). In some embodiments, the furin and P2A sequences include a nucleic acid sequence encoding the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:44. In some embodiments, the P2A tag comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 44 or a sequence having at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% identity thereto.

[0262] In some embodiments, the CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, monoclonal antibody, antigen-binding fragment thereof, is specific for one or more of the antigens disclosed herein and can be co-expressed with EGFR. In some embodiments, the CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, monoclonal antibody, antigen-binding fragment thereof, is specific for one or more of the antigens disclosed herein, together with truncated EGFR (tEGFR). expressed (eg, co-expressed). In some embodiments, tEGFR comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical, at least 96% identical, at least 97% identical, at least 98% identical, at least 99% identical or 100% identical to SEQ ID NO: 43. tEGFR:MLLLVTSLLLCELPHPAFLLIPRKVCNGIGIGEFKDSLSINATNIKHFKNCTSISGDLHILPVAFRGDSFTHTPPLDPQELDILKTVKEITGFLLIQAWPENRTDLHAFENLEIIRGRTKQHGQFSLAVVSLNITSLGLRSLKEISDGDVIISGNKNLCYANTINWKKLFGTSGQKTKIISNRGENSCKATGQVCHALCSPEGCWGPEPRDCVSCRNVSRG RECVDKCNLLEGEPREFVENSECIQCHPECLPQAMNITCTGRGPDNCIQCAHYIDGPHCVKTCPAGVMGENNTLVWKYADAGHVCHLCHPNCTYGCTGPGLEGCPTNGPKIPSIATGMVGALLLLLVVALGIGLFM (SEQ ID NO: 43)

[0263] The CAR, a T cell expressing the CAR, a monoclonal antibody, an antigen-binding fragment thereof, is specific for one or more of the antigens disclosed herein and further includes a detectable marker, e.g., ELISA, spectrophotometry, flow Cytometry, microscopy or imaging techniques (computed tomography (CT), computed transverse tomography (CAT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI)), magnetic resonance tomography (MTR) , ultrasound, fiber optics, and laparoscopy). Specific non-limiting examples of detectable markers include fluorophores, chemiluminescent agents, enzyme linkages, radioisotopes, and heavy metals or compounds (e.g., superparamagnetic iron oxide nanocrystals for detection by MRI). It will be done. For example, useful detectable markers include fluorescent compounds, including fluorescein, fluorescein isothiocyanate, rhodamine, 5-dimethylamine-1-naphthalenesulfonyl chloride, phycoerythrin, lanthanide fluorophores, and the like. Bioluminescent markers such as luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), etc. are also useful. The CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, can also be conjugated with enzymes useful for detection, such as horseradish peroxidase, β-galactosidase, luciferase, alkaline phosphatase, glucose oxidase, and the like. When a CAR, a T cell expressing the CAR, an antibody, or its antigen-binding portion is complexed with a detectable enzyme, it adds additional reagents that the enzyme uses to generate reaction products that can be distinguished. can be detected by For example, when the agent horseradish peroxidase is present, addition of hydrogen peroxide and diaminobenzidine results in a visually detectable colored reaction product. The CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, may also be complexed with biotin and detected by indirect measurement of avidin or streptavidin binding. It should be noted that avidin itself can be conjugated with enzymes or fluorescent labels.

[0264] The CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, can be complexed with a paramagnetic material such as gadolinium. Paramagnetic materials such as superparamagnetic iron oxide are also useful as labels. Antibodies can also be conjugated to lanthanides (such as europium and dysprosium) and manganese. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment can also be labeled with a predetermined polypeptide epitope (leucine zipper pair sequence, secondary antibody binding site, metal binding domain, epitope tag, etc.) that is recognized by a secondary reporter.

[0265] The CAR, T cell expressing the CAR, antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, can also be conjugated with a radiolabeled amino acid. Radioactive labels can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. For example, radioactive labels can be used to detect one or more of the antigens and antigen-expressing cells disclosed herein by X-ray, emission spectroscopy, or other diagnostic techniques. Additionally, radioactive labels can be used therapeutically as toxins for the treatment of tumors in a subject, such as for the treatment of neuroblastoma. Examples of labels for polypeptides include, but are not limited to, the following radioisotopes or radionucleotides: 3 H, 14 C, 15 N, 35 S, 90 Y, 99 Tc, 111 In, 125 I, 131 I.

[0266] Means for detecting such detectable markers are well known to those skilled in the art. Thus, for example, radioactive labels may be detected using photographic film or a scintillation counter, fluorescent markers may be detected using a photodetector that detects the emitted illumination. Enzyme labels are typically detected by providing a substrate to the enzyme and detecting the reaction product produced by the enzyme's action on the substrate, and colorimetric labels are detected simply by visualizing the colored label.

[0267] Nucleic acids, expression vectors, and host cells Further provided by embodiments of the invention are nucleotide sequences encoding any of the CARs, antibodies, or antigen-binding portions thereof (including functional portions and functional variants thereof) described herein. It is a nucleic acid. Nucleic acids of the invention may include nucleotide sequences encoding any of the leader sequences, antigen binding domains, transmembrane domains, and / or intracellular T cell signaling domains described herein.

[0268] In one aspect, the invention encompasses a recombinant nucleic acid construct comprising a nucleic acid molecule encoding a CAR, wherein the nucleic acid molecule is adjacent to and in the same reading frame as a nucleic acid sequence encoding an intracellular signaling domain. For example, it includes a nucleic acid sequence encoding an anti-GCC binding domain as described herein. Exemplary intracellular signaling domains that can be used in a CAR include, but are not limited to, one or more intracellular signaling domains such as, for example, CD3 zeta, CD28, 4-1BB. In some embodiments, the CAR may include any combination of CD3 zeta, CD28, 4-1BB, etc.

[0269] In one aspect, the invention provides at least about 70% or more, such as about 80%, about 90%, about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, Nucleic acids are provided that include nucleotide sequences that are about 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99% identical.

[0270] In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encodes an anti-GCC binding domain selected from the anti-GCC VH sequences provided in Tables 1-3 or Table 7. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid has at least about 70% or more, such as about 80%, about 90%, about 91%, about 92%, about 93%, about Includes sequences that are 94%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99% identical. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid comprises a sequence identical to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 61-70.

[0271] In some embodiments, the nucleotide sequence may be codon modified. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that codon optimization of nucleotide sequences increases the efficiency of translation of mRNA transcripts. Codon optimization of a nucleotide sequence may involve substituting a natural codon with another codon that encodes the same amino acid, but improves translation efficiency by being translated by tRNAs that are more readily available in the cell. can be improved. Nucleotide sequence optimization may also improve translation efficiency by reducing secondary mRNA structures that interfere with translation.

[0272] In one embodiment of the invention, the nucleic acid may comprise a codon-modified nucleotide sequence encoding the antigen binding domain of a CAR of the invention. In another embodiment of the invention, the nucleic acid may include a codon-modified nucleotide sequence encoding any of the CARs described herein (including functional portions and functional variants thereof).

[0273] In one aspect, the invention relates to vectors comprising a nucleic acid molecule as described herein, eg, a nucleic acid molecule encoding a CAR as described herein. In one embodiment, the vector is selected from the group consisting of DNA, RNA, plasmid, lentiviral vector, adenoviral vector, or retroviral vector.

[0274] In one embodiment, the vector is a lentiviral vector. In one embodiment, the vector further comprises a promoter. In one embodiment, the promoter is the EF-1 promoter.

[0275] Expression vectors include plasmids, retroviruses, cosmids, YACs, EBV-derived episomes, and the like. A convenient vector is one that encodes a functionally complete human CH or CL immunoglobulin sequence and has been engineered with appropriate restriction sites so that any VH or VL sequence can be easily inserted and expressed. . In such vectors, splicing typically occurs between the splice donor site of the inserted J region and the splice acceptor site before the human C region, and also at splice regions that occur within the human CH exon. Suitable expression vectors include a number of components, such as an origin of replication, a selectable marker gene, one or more expression control elements, such as a transcription control element (e.g., a promoter, enhancer, or terminator), and / or one It may contain more than one translation signal, signal sequence or leader sequence, etc. Polyadenylation and transcription termination occur at natural chromosomal sites downstream of the coding region. The resulting chimeric antibody can be linked to any strong promoter. Examples of suitable vectors that may be used include those that are suitable for mammalian hosts and that contain viral replication systems, such as simian virus 40 (SV40), Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), adenovirus 2, bovine papilloma virus (BPV), These include those based on papovavirus BK variant (BKV), or murine and human cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Moloney murine leukemia virus (MMLV), natural Ig promoters, and the like. A variety of suitable vectors are known in the art, including artificial vectors maintained in single or multiple copies or engineered, e.g., via an LTR or with multiple integration sites. Examples include vectors that integrate into the host cell chromosome via the chromosome (Lindenbaum et al. Nucleic Acids Res. 32:e172 (2004), Kennard et al. Biotechnol. Bioeng. Online May 20, 2009). Additional examples of suitable vectors are listed in later sections.

[0276] The invention also includes RNA constructs that can be directly transfected into cells. The method for generating mRNA for use in transfection involves template in vitro transcription (IVT) using specially designed primers, followed by polyA addition, and 3' and 5' untranslated sequences (“UTRs”). , a 5' cap and / or an internal ribosome entry site (IRES), the expressed nucleic acid, and a polyA tail, and are typically 50-2000 bases in length. RNA so produced can efficiently transfect different types of cells. In one embodiment, the template includes the sequence of a CAR. In one embodiment, the RNA CAR vector is transduced into cells, eg, T cells or NK cells, by electroporation.

[0277] Accordingly, the present invention provides antibodies, antigen-binding fragments of antibodies (e.g., human, humanized, chimeric antibodies or antigen-binding fragments of any of the foregoing), antibody chains (e.g., heavy chains, light chains), or antibodies that bind to GCC proteins. An expression vector comprising a nucleic acid encoding an antigen-binding portion of an antibody chain is provided.

[0278] Expression in eukaryotic host cells is useful because such cells are more likely than prokaryotic cells to assemble and secrete properly folded immunologically active antibodies. However, any antibodies produced that are inactive due to improper folding may be regenerated according to known methods (Kim and Baldwin, “Specific Intermediates in the Folding Reactions of Small Proteins and the Mechanism of Protein Folding”, Ann. Rev. Biochem. 51, pp. 459-89 (1982)). Host cells may produce parts of intact antibodies, such as light chain dimers or heavy chain dimers, which are also antibody homologs according to the invention.

[0279] In one embodiment, the nucleic acid can be incorporated into a recombinant expression vector. In this regard, embodiments provide recombinant expression vectors comprising any of the nucleic acids. For purposes of this specification, the term "recombinant expression vector" refers to the expression vector used to express an mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide by a host cell when the construct contains a nucleotide sequence that encodes an mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide. or a genetically modified oligonucleotide or polynucleotide construct that enables the expression of a peptide, the vector contacts a cell under conditions sufficient to have the mRNA, protein, polypeptide, or peptide expressed within the cell. do. Vectors are not naturally occurring in their entirety.

[0280] However, some parts of the vector may occur naturally. Recombinant expression vectors may contain any type of nucleotides, including but not limited to DNA and RNA, which may be single-stranded or double-stranded, partially synthesized or obtained from natural sources, It may contain natural, non-natural or altered nucleotides. Recombinant expression vectors may contain naturally occurring or non-naturally occurring internucleotide linkages, or both types of linkages. Preferably, non-naturally occurring or altered nucleotides or internucleotide linkages do not interfere with transcription or replication of the vector.

[0281] In one embodiment, the recombinant expression vector can be any suitable recombinant expression vector and can be used to transform or transfect any suitable host cell. Suitable vectors include those designed for propagation and expansion, or for expression, or both, such as plasmids and viruses. Vectors include pUC series (Fermentas Life Sciences, Glen Burnie, Md.), pBluescript series (Stratagene, LaJolla, Calif.), pET series (Novagen, Madison, Wis.), pGEX series (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden), and pEX series (Clontech, Palo Alto, Calif.).

[0282] Bacteriophage vectors such as λ, λZapII (Stratagene), EMBL4, and λNMI149 can also be used. Examples of plant expression vectors include pBIO1, pBI101.2, pBHO1.3, pBI121 and pBIN19 (Clontech). Examples of animal expression vectors include pEUK-C1, pMAM, and pMAMneo (Clontech). The recombinant expression vector can be a viral vector, such as a retroviral vector or a lentiviral vector. A lentiviral vector is a vector derived from at least a portion of a lentiviral genome, in particular a self-inactivating vector as provided in Milone et al., Mol. Ther. 17(8):1453-1464 (2009). Contains lentiviral vectors. Other examples of lentiviral vectors that may be used in the clinic include, for example, without limitation, Oxford BioMedica plc's LENTIVECTOR® gene delivery technology, Lentigen's LENTIMAX® vector system, and the like. Non-clinical lentiviral vectors are also available and known to those skilled in the art.

[0283] Numerous transfection techniques are generally known in the art (e.g., Graham et al., Virology, 52:456-467 (1973), Sambrook et al., supra, Davis et al., Basic Methods in Molecular See Biology, Elsevier (1986) and Chu et al, Gene, 13:97 (1981).

[0284] Transfection methods include calcium phosphate coprecipitation (see, e.g., Graham et al., supra), direct microinjection into cultured cells (see, e.g., Capecchi, Cell, 22:479-488 (1980)). ), electroporation (see e.g. Shigekawa et al., BioTechniques, 6:742-751 (1988)), liposome-mediated gene transfer (e.g. Mannino et al., BioTechniques, 6:682-690 (1988 ), lipid-mediated transduction (see, e.g., Feigner et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 84:7413-7417 (1987)), and using high-speed microprojectiles. (see, eg, Klein et al, Nature, 327:70-73 (1987)).

[0285] In one embodiment, recombinant expression vectors can be prepared using standard recombinant DNA techniques as described, for example, in Sambrook et al., supra, and Ausubel et al., supra. Expression vector constructs, circular or linear, can be prepared to contain replication systems that function in prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cells. Replication systems may be derived from, for example, ColE1, 2μ plasmid, λ, SV40, bovine papillomavirus, etc.

[0286] Recombinant expression vectors may contain regulatory sequences such as transcription and translation initiation and termination codons, which are specific to the host cell type (e.g., bacteria, fungi, plants, or animals) into which the vector is suitably introduced. and whether the vector is DNA- or RNA-based. Recombinant expression vectors may contain restriction sites to facilitate cloning.

[0287] Recombinant expression vectors may contain one or more marker genes, which allow selection of transformed or transfected host cells. Marker genes include biocide resistance, eg, resistance to antibiotics, heavy metals, etc., complementation to provide prototrophy in an auxotrophic host, and the like. Marker genes suitable for the expression vector of the present invention include, for example, a neomycin / G418 resistance gene, a hygromycin resistance gene, a histidinol resistance gene, a tetracycline resistance gene, and an ampicillin resistance gene.

[0288] The recombinant expression vector is operably linked to a nucleotide sequence encoding the CAR (including functional portions and functional variants thereof) or to a nucleotide sequence that is complementary to or hybridizes to the nucleotide sequence encoding the CAR. may contain natural or non-natural promoters. For example, the selection of strong, weak, inducible, tissue-specific and development-specific promoters is within the skill of those in the art. Similarly, combinations of nucleotide sequences and promoters are within the skill of those skilled in the art. The promoter can be a non-viral promoter or a viral promoter, such as the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, the SV40 promoter, the RSV promoter, the EF1 alpha promoter or the promoter found in the long terminal repeat of the mouse stem cell virus.

[0289] Recombinant expression vectors can be designed for either transient expression, stable expression, or both. Also, recombinant expression vectors can be created for constitutive or inducible expression.

[0290] Additionally, recombinant expression vectors can be made to contain suicide genes. As used herein, the term "suicide gene" refers to a gene that causes cells expressing the suicide gene to die. A suicide gene may be a gene that confers sensitivity to a drug, eg, a drug, in the cell in which the gene is expressed, causing the cell to die if the cell comes into contact with or is exposed to the drug. Suicide genes are known in the art (e.g., Suicide Gene Therapy: Methods and Reviews, Springer, Caroline J. (Cancer Research UK Center for Cancer Therapeutics at the Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey, UK), Humana Press, 2004), including, for example, the herpes simplex virus (HSV) thymidine kinase (TK) gene, cytosine daminase, purine nucleoside phosphorylase, and nitroreductase.

[0291] Embodiments further provide host cells comprising any of the recombinant expression vectors described herein. As used herein, the term "host cell" refers to any cell type that can contain a recombinant expression vector of the invention. The host cell may be eukaryotic, such as a plant, animal, fungus, or algae, or prokaryotic, such as a bacterium or protozoan. The host cell can be a cultured cell or a primary cell, ie, a cell isolated directly from an organism, eg, a human. Host cells can be adherent cells or suspension cells, ie, cells that grow in suspension. Suitable host cells are known in the art and include, for example, DH5a E. coli cells, Chinese hamster ovary cells, monkey VERO cells, COS cells, HEK293 cells, HEK293T cells, and the like. For purposes of amplifying or replicating recombinant expression vectors, the host cell may be a prokaryotic cell, such as a DH5a cell. For purposes of producing recombinant CARs, the host cell may be a mammalian cell. The host cell may be a human cell. Although the host cell may be of any cell type, derived from any tissue type, and at any stage of development, the host cell may be a peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) or a peripheral blood mononuclear cell. It may be a cell (PBMC). The host cell may be a T cell.

[0292] For purposes herein, T cells are any T cells, e.g., cultured T cells, e.g., primary T cells, or T cells derived from cultured T cell lines, e.g., Jurkat, SupT1, etc., or mammalian It can be T cells obtained from animals, etc. When obtained from a mammal, T cells can be obtained from a number of sources including, but not limited to, blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, thymus, or other tissues or body fluids. T cells can also be enriched or purified. The T cell may be a human T cell. The T cell may be a T cell isolated from a human. T cells can be of any T cell type and of any developmental stage, e.g. CD4+ / CD8+ double positive T cells, CD4+ helper T cells, e.g. Th1 and Th2 cells, CD8+ T cells (e.g. , cytotoxic T cells), tumor-infiltrating cells, memory T cells, memory stem cells, i.e., Tscm, naïve T cells, and the like. T cells may be CD8+ T cells or CD4+ T cells.

[0293] In one embodiment, a CAR as described herein may be used on suitable non-T cells. Such cells include cells with immune effector functions, such as NK cells and T-like cells generated from pluripotent stem cells.

[0294] One aspect of the present application provides that any one of the CARs described herein, or any one of the isolated nucleic acids described above, or any one of the vectors described above, Provided are engineered immune effector cells comprising: In some embodiments, the immune effector cells are T cells, NK cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), hematopoietic stem cells, pluripotent stem cells, or embryonic stem cells. In some embodiments, the immune effector cell is a T cell.

[0295] Also provided by one embodiment is a cell population comprising at least one host cell described herein. The cell population may be a heterogeneous population comprising, in addition to at least one other cell, e.g. a host cell (e.g. a T cell), a host cell containing any of the recombinant expression vectors described; It does not contain any recombinant expression vectors or cells other than T cells, such as B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, red blood cells, hepatocytes, endothelial cells, epithelial cells, muscle cells, brain cells, etc. Alternatively, the cell population can be a substantially homogeneous population, in which case the population primarily comprises host cells containing (eg, consisting essentially of) the recombinant expression vector. The population may also be a clonal cell population, in which all cells of the population are clones of a single host cell containing the recombinant expression vector, such that all cells of the population contain the recombinant expression vector. . In one embodiment of the invention, the cell population is a clonal population comprising host cells containing recombinant expression vectors as described herein.

[0296] CARs (including functional portions and variants thereof), nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, host cells (including populations thereof), and antibodies (including antigen-binding portions thereof) may be isolated and / or purified. For example, a purified (or isolated) host cell preparation is one in which the host cells are purer than the cells in their natural environment within the body. Such host cells can be produced, for example, by standard purification techniques. In some embodiments, a preparation of host cells is purified such that the host cells represent at least about 50%, such as at least about 70%, of the total cell content of the preparation. For example, purity can be at least about 50%, greater than about 60%, about 70% or about 80%, or about 100%.

[0297] Nucleic acid sequences encoding the desired molecule can be obtained by recombinant methods known in the art, e.g., by screening libraries from cells expressing the gene, in vectors known to contain the same. or by direct isolation from cells and tissues containing the same using standard techniques.

[0298] Alternatively, the gene of interest can be produced synthetically rather than by cloning. The present invention also provides vectors into which the DNA of the present invention is inserted. Vectors derived from retroviruses, such as lentiviruses, are suitable tools for achieving long-term gene transfer because they allow stable long-term integration of the transgene and its propagation in daughter cells. Lentiviral vectors have a further advantage over vectors derived from oncoretroviruses, such as murine leukemia virus, in that they can transduce non-proliferating cells such as hepatocytes. They also have the added advantage of low immunogenicity.

[0299] Expression of a natural or synthetic nucleic acid encoding a CAR can be accomplished by operably linking the nucleic acid encoding the CAR polypeptide, or a portion thereof, to a promoter and incorporating the construct into an expression vector. Vectors may be suitable for eukaryotic replication and integration. A typical cloning vector contains transcription and translation terminators, initiation sequences, and a promoter useful for controlling the expression of the desired nucleic acid sequence.

[0300] Expression constructs of the invention may also be used in nucleic acid immunization and gene therapy using standard gene delivery protocols. Methods of gene delivery are known in the art. See, eg, US Pat. No. 5,399,346, US Pat. No. 5,580,859, US Pat. In another embodiment, the invention provides gene therapy vectors.

[0301] Nucleic acids can be cloned into many types of vectors. For example, nucleic acids can be cloned into vectors including, but not limited to, plasmids, phagemids, phage derivatives, animal viruses, and cosmids. Vectors of particular interest include expression vectors, replication vectors, probe generation vectors, and sequencing vectors. Additionally, expression vectors may be provided to cells in the form of viral vectors.

[0302] Viral vector technology is well known in the art and is described, for example, in Sambrook et al. (2001, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York), and in other virology and molecular biology manuals. has been done. Viruses useful as vectors include, but are not limited to, retroviruses, adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses, herpesviruses, and lentiviruses. Generally, suitable vectors contain an origin of replication functional in at least one organism, a promoter sequence, convenient restriction endonuclease sites, and one or more selectable markers (e.g., WO01 / 96584, WO01 / 29058 , and U.S. Patent No. 6,326,193).

[0303] A number of virus-based systems have been developed for gene transfer into mammalian cells. For example, retroviruses provide a convenient platform for gene delivery systems. The selected genes can be inserted into vectors and packaged into retroviral particles using techniques known in the art. Recombinant virus can then be isolated and delivered to cells of interest either in vivo or ex vivo. Numerous retroviral systems are known in the art. In some embodiments, adenoviral vectors are used. A large number of adenoviral vectors are known in the art. In one embodiment, lentiviral vectors are used.

[0304] Additional promoter elements, such as enhancers, control the frequency of transcription initiation. Typically they are located in a region 30-110 bp upstream of the start site, but recently it has been shown that a number of promoters contain functional elements downstream of the start site as well. The spacing between promoter elements is often flexible so that promoter function is maintained even when elements are inverted or moved relative to each other. For the thymidine kinase (tk) promoter, the spacing between promoter elements can be increased in 50 bp increments before activity begins to decrease. It is believed that, depending on the promoter, individual elements can function either cooperatively or separately to activate transcription.

[0305] An example of a suitable promoter is the immediate early cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter sequence. This promoter sequence is a strong constitutive promoter sequence capable of driving high level expression of any polynucleotide sequence operably linked thereto.

[0306] Another example of a suitable promoter is elongation growth factor-1a (EF-1a). However, other constitutive promoter sequences may also be used, including the simian virus 40 (SV40) early promoter, mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter, MoMuLV In addition to promoters such as the avian leukemia virus promoter, the Epstein-Barr virus immediate early promoter, and the Rous sarcoma virus promoter, human gene promoters include, but are not limited to, the actin promoter, myosin promoter, hemoglobin promoter, and creatine kinase promoter. but not limited to. Furthermore, the invention should not be limited to the use of constitutive promoters. Inducible promoters are also contemplated as part of this invention. The use of an inducible promoter provides a molecular switch that can turn on the expression of a polynucleotide sequence to which it is operably linked when such expression is desired, or turn off expression when such expression is not desired. provide. Examples of inducible promoters include, but are not limited to, metallothionine promoters, glucocorticoid promoters, progesterone promoters, and tetracycline promoters.

[0307] To assess the expression of a CAR polypeptide or a portion thereof, the expression vector introduced into cells also contains either a selectable marker gene or a reporter gene, or both, and is transfected by a viral vector. or facilitate the identification and selection of expressing cells from a cell population that is sought to be infected. In other embodiments, selectable markers may be kept separate pieces of DNA and used in co-transfection procedures.

[0308] Both the selectable marker and the reporter gene may be flanked by appropriate regulatory sequences to enable expression in the host cell. Useful selectable markers include, for example, antibiotic resistance genes such as neo. Reporter genes are used to identify potentially transfected cells and assess the functionality of regulatory sequences. Generally, a reporter gene is a gene encoding a polypeptide that is not present in or expressed by the recipient organism or tissue, and expression of the polypeptide is manifested by some readily detectable property, e.g., enzymatic activity. It is. Expression of the reporter gene is assayed at a suitable time point after the DNA has been introduced into the recipient cell. Suitable reporter genes may include genes encoding luciferase, beta-galactosidase, chloramphenicol acetyltransferase, secreted alkaline phosphatase, or the green fluorescent protein gene (e.g., Ui-Tei et al., 2000 FEBS Letters 479:79-82). Suitable expression systems are well known and may be prepared using known techniques or obtained commercially. Generally, the construct with the smallest 5' flanking region that shows the highest level of reporter gene expression is identified as a promoter. Such promoter regions may be linked to reporter genes and used to evaluate agents for their ability to modulate promoter-driven transcription.

[0309] Methods of introducing and expressing genes in cells are known in the art. In the context of expression vectors, vectors can be readily introduced into host cells, such as mammalian, bacterial, yeast, or insect cells, by any method in the art. For example, expression vectors can be introduced into host cells by physical, chemical, or biological means. Physical methods for introducing polynucleotides into host cells include calcium phosphate precipitation, lipofection, particle bombardment, microinjection, electroporation, and the like. Methods of producing cells containing vectors and / or foreign nucleic acids are well known in the art. See, eg, Sambrook et al. (2001, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York). A preferred method of introducing polynucleotides into host cells is calcium phosphate transfection.

[0310] Biological methods of introducing polynucleotides of interest into host cells include the use of DNA and RNA vectors. Viral vectors, particularly retroviral vectors, have become the most widely used method for inserting genes into mammalian cells, such as human cells. Other viral vectors may be derived from lentiviruses, poxviruses, herpes simplex virus I, adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses, and the like. See, eg, US Pat. No. 5,350,674 and US Pat. No. 5,585,362. Chemical means for introducing polynucleotides into host cells include colloidal dispersions, such as polymer complexes, nanocapsules, microspheres, beads, as well as oil-in-water emulsions, micelles, mixed micelles, and liposomes. and lipid-based systems containing.

[0311] An exemplary colloid system for use as a delivery vehicle in vitro and in vivo is liposomes (eg, artificial membrane vesicles). If a non-viral delivery system is utilized, exemplary delivery vehicles are nanoparticles, such as liposomes or other suitable submicron-sized delivery systems. The use of lipid formulations is contemplated for the introduction of nucleic acids into host cells (in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo). In another embodiment, the nucleic acid may be associated with a lipid. Nucleic acids associated with lipids are encapsulated in the aqueous interior of the liposomes, interspersed within the lipid bilayer of the liposomes, and attached to the liposomes via linking molecules associated with both the liposomes and oligonucleotides. encapsulated, complexed with liposomes, dispersed in a solution containing lipids, mixed with lipids, combined with lipids, contained as a suspension in lipids, containing micelles, or It may be complexed with micelles or otherwise associated with lipids. The lipid, lipid / DNA or lipid / expression vector related compositions are not limited to any particular structure in solution. For example, they may exist as micelles or in bilayer structures with a "collapsed" structure. They can also form aggregates that are not uniform in size or shape by simply being scattered in the solution. Lipids are fatty substances that can be naturally occurring or synthetic lipids. For example, lipids include, in addition to naturally occurring lipid droplets in the cytoplasm, a class of compounds containing long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons and their derivatives, such as fatty acids, alcohols, amines, amino alcohols, and aldehydes. Can be mentioned.

[0312] Lipids suitable for use can be obtained from commercial sources. For example, dimyristyl phosphatidylcholine (“DMPC”) can be obtained from Sigma, St. Louis, MO, dicetyl phosphate (“DCP”) can be obtained from K&K Laboratories (Plainview, NY), and cholesterol (“Choi ”) can be obtained from Calbiochem-Behring, and dimyristylphosphatidylglycerol (“DMPG”) and other lipids can be obtained from Avanti Polar Lipids, Inc. (Birmingham, AL). Stock solutions of lipids in chloroform or chloroform / methanol can be stored at about -20°C. Chloroform is used as the only solvent because it evaporates more easily than methanol. "Liposome" is a generic term encompassing a variety of unilamellar and multilamellar lipid vehicles formed by the production of encapsulated lipid bilayers or aggregates. Liposomes can be characterized as having a vesicular structure with a phospholipid bilayer membrane and an aqueous medium inside. Multilamellar liposomes have multiple lipid layers separated by an aqueous medium. They are formed naturally when phospholipids are suspended in excess aqueous solution. The lipid components undergo self-reorganization before forming a closed structure, entrapping water and dissolved solutes between the lipid bilayers (Ghosh et a, 1991 Glycobiology 5:505-10).

[0313] However, compositions having structures in solution that differ from normal vesicular structures are also included. For example, lipids may adopt micellar structures or simply exist as heterogeneous aggregates of lipid molecules. Lipofectamine nucleic acid complexes are also contemplated. Regardless of the method used to introduce foreign nucleic acids into host cells or otherwise expose cells to the inhibitors of the invention, to confirm the presence of recombinant DNA sequences in host cells, Various assays may be performed. Such assays include, for example, "molecular biological" assays well known to those skilled in the art, such as Southern and Northern blotting, RT-PCR and PCR, "biochemical" assays, such as immunological means, etc. Detecting the presence or absence of particular peptides (ELISA and Western blots) or by assays described herein for identifying agents that are within the scope of the invention.

[0314] The invention further provides vectors containing nucleic acid molecules encoding CARs. In one embodiment, the CAR vector can be directly transduced into cells, eg, T cells. In one embodiment, vectors include cloning or expression vectors, such as one or more plasmids (e.g., expression plasmids, cloning vectors, minicircles, minivectors, double microchromosomes), retroviral and lentiviral vector constructs. , but are not limited to vectors. In one embodiment, the vector is capable of expressing the CAR construct in mammalian T cells. In one embodiment, the mammalian T cell is a human T cell.

[0315] In some embodiments, non-viral methods can be used to deliver a nucleic acid encoding a CAR described herein to a cell or tissue or subject. In some embodiments, non-viral methods include the use of transposons (also called transposable elements). In some embodiments, a transposon is a piece of DNA that can insert itself into a location in the genome, for example, a piece of DNA that can self-replicate and insert its copy into the genome, or can be spliced ​​from a longer nucleic acid. It is a piece of DNA that can be inserted elsewhere in the genome.

[0316] Additional and exemplary transposon and non-viral delivery methods are described on pages 196-198 of International Application WO2016 / 164731, filed April 8, 2016, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0317] Source of T cells A source of cells, eg, T cells or NK cells, can be obtained from the subject prior to expansion and genetic modification, eg, to express the CARs described herein. The term "subject" is intended to include organisms (eg, mammals) against which an immune response can be elicited. Examples of subjects include humans, dogs, cats, mice, rats, and transgenic species thereof.

[0318] In embodiments, the immune effector cells (e.g., a population of immune effector cells), e.g., T cells, are derived from stem cells, e.g., embryonic stem cells or pluripotent stem cells, e.g., induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) ( e.g., differentiated from it). In embodiments, the cells are autologous or allogeneic. In embodiments where the cells are allogeneic, for example, cells derived from stem cells (eg, iPSCs) are modified to reduce their alloreactivity. For example, cells can be modified to reduce alloreactivity, eg, by altering (eg, destroying) their T cell receptors. In embodiments, site-specific nucleases can be used, for example, to destroy T cell receptors after T cell differentiation. In other examples, T cells derived from cells, eg, iPSCs, may be generated from virus-specific T cells, which are less likely to cause graft-versus-host disease due to their recognition of pathogen-derived antigens. In yet another example, by generating iPSCs from a common HLA haplotype such that the HLA haplotype is histocompatible with the corresponding unrelated recipient subject, alloreactivity may be reduced, e.g., minimally It can be suppressed.

[0319] In yet another example, alloreactivity may be reduced, eg, minimized, by suppressing HLA expression through genetic modification. For example, T cells derived from iPSCs can be processed, eg, as described in Themeli et al. Nat. Biotechnol. 31.10 (2013):928-35 (incorporated herein by reference). In some examples, stem cell-derived immune effector cells, such as T cells, can be processed / generated using the methods described in WO2014 / 165707 (incorporated herein by reference).

[0320] T cells can be obtained from a number of sources, including peripheral blood mononuclear cells, bone marrow, lymph node tissue, umbilical cord blood, thymus tissue, tissue from sites of infection, ascites, pleural effusions, spleen tissue, and tumors. obtain. In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, any number of T cell lines available in the art may be used. In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, T cells may be obtained from a blood unit collected from a subject using any number of techniques known to those of skill in the art, such as Ficoll™ separation. In one preferred embodiment, cells derived from the circulating blood of an individual are obtained by apheresis. Apheresis products typically contain T cells, monocytes, granulocytes, B cells, other nucleated white blood cells, red blood cells, and lymphocytes, including platelets. In one aspect, cells collected by apheresis may be washed to remove the plasma fraction and place the cells in an appropriate buffer or medium for subsequent processing steps. In one aspect of the invention, cells are washed with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). In alternative embodiments, the wash liquid may be devoid of calcium, may be devoid of magnesium, or may be devoid of many, but not all, divalent cations.

[0321] Even in the absence of calcium, the initial activation step can result in expanded activation. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, washing steps can be performed by methods known to those skilled in the art, for example, in a semi-automatic "flow-through" centrifuge (e.g., a Cobe 2991 Cell Processor) according to the manufacturer's instructions. , Baxter CytoMate, or Haemonetics Cell Saver 5). After washing, cells may be resuspended in various biocompatible buffers, such as Ca-free PBS, Mg-free PBS, PlasmaLyte A, or other saline with or without buffer. . Alternatively, undesirable components of the apheresis sample may be removed and cells resuspended directly in culture medium.

[0322] The methods of the present application utilize culture medium conditions containing 5% or less, e.g., 2% human AB serum, and utilize known culture medium conditions and compositions, e.g., Smith et al. It is recognized that the immunotherapy described in "cells for adoptive immunotherapy using the novel Xeno-free CTS Immune Cell Serum Replacement" Clinical & Translational Immunology (2015) 4, e31; doi:10.1038 / cti.2014.31 can be used.

[0323] In one embodiment, T cells are isolated from peripheral blood lymphocytes by lysing red blood cells and depleting monocytes, eg, by centrifugation through a PERCOLL™ gradient or by countercurrent centrifugal elution. Specific subpopulations of T cells, such as CD3+, CD28+, CD4+, CD8+, CD45RA+, and CD45RO+ T cells, can be further isolated by positive or negative selection techniques. For example, in one embodiment, T cells are treated with anti-CD3 / anti-CD28 (e.g., 3x28) complexed beads, e.g., DYNABEADS® M-450 CD3, for a period of time sufficient for positive selection of the desired T cells. Isolated by incubation with / CD28T etc. In one embodiment, the time is about 30 minutes. In further embodiments, the time ranges from 30 minutes to 36 hours or more and all integer values ​​therebetween. In further embodiments, the time is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 hours. In yet another preferred embodiment, the time is 10 to 24 hours. In one embodiment, the incubation time is 24 hours. Longer incubation times may be useful in cases where only a few T cells are present when compared to other cell types, such as when isolating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) from tumor tissues or from immunocompromised individuals. may be used to isolate T cells under certain circumstances. Furthermore, the use of longer incubation times may increase the capture efficiency of CD8+ T cells. Thus, by simply shortening or extending the time that T cells can bind to CD3 / CD28 beads and / or by increasing or decreasing the bead to T cell ratio (as further described herein). , a subpopulation of T cells can be selectively selected for viability at the beginning of the culture or at other points during the process. Furthermore, by increasing or decreasing the ratio of anti-CD3 and / or anti-CD28 antibodies on beads or other surfaces, subpopulations of T cells can be selectively selected for activation at the beginning of culture or at other desired time points. can be done. Those skilled in the art will recognize that multiple selection rounds may also be used in connection with the present invention. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to perform a selection procedure and use "unselected" cells in the activation and expansion process. "Unselected" cells may also be subjected to further rounds of selection.

[0324] Enrichment of T cell populations by negative selection can be achieved using a combination of antibodies directed against surface markers specific to cells that have undergone negative selection. One method is cell sorting and / or selection by negative magnetic immunoadhesion or flow cytometry using a cocktail of monoclonal antibodies directed against cell surface markers present on cells undergoing negative selection. For example, to enrich for CD4+ cells by negative selection, monoclonal antibody cocktails typically include antibodies against CD14, CD20, CD11b, CD16, HLA-DR, and CD8. In certain embodiments, enrichment or positive selection for regulatory T cells, which typically express CD4+, CD25+, CD62Lhi, GITR+, and FoxP3+, may be desirable.

[0325] Alternatively, in certain embodiments, regulatory T cells are depleted by anti-C25-conjugated beads or other similar selection methods. The methods described herein include, e.g., a population depleted of immune effector cells, e.g., T cells (CD25+ regulatory T cells) using, e.g., negative selection techniques, as described herein. depleted cells). Preferably, the population of regulatory T-depleted cells contains less than 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1% CD25+ cells.

[0326] In one embodiment, regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ T cells, are removed from the population using an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, or the CD25 binding ligand IL-2. In one embodiment, the anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, or CD25 binding ligand is conjugated to or otherwise coated onto a substrate, eg, a bead. In one embodiment, an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, is conjugated to a substrate as described herein.

[0327] In one embodiment, regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ T cells, are removed from the population using the CD25 depletion reagent from Miltenyi™. In one embodiment, the ratio of cells to CD25 depletion reagent is le7 cells to 20 uL, or le7 cells to 15 uL, or le7 cells to 10 uL, or le7 cells to 5 uL, or le7 cells to 2.5 uL, or le7 cells to 1.25 uL. It is. In one embodiment, more than 500 million cells / ml are used, eg, for regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ depleted cells. In further embodiments, cell concentrations of 600 million, 700 million, 800 million, or 900 million cells / ml are used. In one embodiment, the population of immune effector cells to be depleted comprises about 6 x 109 CD25+ T cells. In other embodiments, the population of immune effector cells to be depleted comprises about 1 x 109 to 1 x 1010 CD25+ T cells, and any integer value therebetween. In one embodiment, the resulting regulatory T-depleted cell population has 2x109 regulatory T cells, e.g., CD25+ cells, or less (e.g., 1x109, 5x108, 1x108, 5x 107, 1 x 107, or fewer CD25+ cells).

[0328] In one embodiment, regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ cells, are removed from the population using a CliniMAC system using a depletion tube set, eg, tube 162-01. In one embodiment, the CliniMAC system is run in a depletion setting, eg, DEPLETION2.1.

[0329] While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, reducing the levels of negative regulators of immune cells (e.g., unwanted immune cells, e.g. (reducing the number of TREG cells) may reduce a subject's risk of recurrence. For example, methods to deplete TREG cells are known in the art. Methods to reduce TREG cells include, but are not limited to, cyclophosphamide, anti-GITR antibodies (anti-GITR antibodies described herein), CD25 depletion, and combinations thereof.

[0330] In some embodiments, the manufacturing method includes reducing the number (eg, depleting) TREG cells prior to manufacturing the CAR-expressing cells. For example, the manufacturing method includes contacting a sample, e.g., an apheresis sample, with an anti-GITR antibody and / or an anti-CD25 antibody (or a fragment thereof, or a CD25-binding ligand) to ) including depleting TREG cells prior to production of the product.

[0331] In one embodiment, the subject is pretreated with one or more therapies that reduce TREG cells prior to collection of cells for the purpose of manufacturing a CAR-expressing cell product, thereby increasing the subject's risk of relapse in response to CAR-expressing cell therapy. decrease. In one embodiment, methods of lowering TREG cells include, but are not limited to, administering to a subject one or more of cyclophosphamide, anti-GITR antibodies, CD25 depletion, or combinations thereof. Administration of one or more of cyclophosphamide, anti-GITR antibody, CD25 depletion, or a combination thereof can be performed before, during, or after the injection of the CAR-expressing cell product.

[0332] In one embodiment, the subject is pretreated with cyclophosphamide prior to collection of cells for the purpose of manufacturing a CAR-expressing cell product, thereby reducing the subject's risk of relapse to CAR-expressing cell therapy. In one embodiment, the subject is pretreated with an anti-GITR antibody prior to collection of cells for the purpose of manufacturing a CAR-expressing cell product, thereby reducing the subject's risk of relapse to CAR-expressing cell therapy.

[0333] In one embodiment, the cell population that is removed is neither regulatory T cells nor tumor cells, but cells that, if not removed, adversely affect the proliferation and / or function of CART cells, such as CD14, CD11b, CD33, CD15. , or possibly other markers expressed by immunosuppressive cells. In one embodiment, it is envisaged that such cells are removed simultaneously with regulatory T cells and / or tumor cells, or after depletion, or in another order.

[0334] The methods described herein can include two or more selection steps, such as two or more depletion steps. Enrichment of a T cell population by negative selection can be achieved, for example, using a combination of antibodies directed against surface markers specific to cells that have undergone negative selection. One method is cell sorting and / or selection by negative magnetic immunoadhesion or flow cytometry using a cocktail of monoclonal antibodies directed against cell surface markers present on cells undergoing negative selection. For example, to enrich for CD4+ cells by negative selection, a monoclonal antibody cocktail can include antibodies against CD14, CD20, CD11b, CD16, HLA-DR, and CD8.

[0335] The methods described herein further remove cells from a population expressing a tumor antigen, e.g., a tumor antigen that does not include CD25, e.g., CD19, CD30, CD38, CD123, CD20, CD14 or CD11b, thereby The method may include providing a population of regulatory T-depleted cells, eg, CD25+ depleted cells, and tumor antigen-depleted cells, suitable for expression of a CAR, eg, a CAR described herein. In one embodiment, tumor antigen-expressing cells are removed simultaneously with regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ cells. For example, an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, and an anti-tumor antigen antibody, or fragment thereof, can be coupled to the same substrate, e.g., beads, that can be used to remove cells, or an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof. , or anti-tumor antigen antibodies, or fragments thereof, can be coupled to separate beads and the mixture used to remove cells. In other embodiments, the removal of regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ cells, and the removal of tumor antigen-expressing cells are sequential, eg, can occur in either order.

[0336] Remove cells, e.g., one or more of PD1+ cells, FAG3+ cells, and TIM3+ cells, from a population expressing a checkpoint inhibitor, e.g., a checkpoint inhibitor described herein, thereby inhibiting regulatory T Also provided are methods comprising providing a population of depleted cells, eg, D25+ depleted cells, as well as checkpoint inhibitor depleted cells, eg, PD1+, FAG3+ and / or TIM3+ depleted cells. Exemplary checkpoint inhibitors include B7-H1, B7-1, CD160, P1H, 2B4, PD1, TIM3, CEACAM (e.g., CEACAM-1, CEACAM-3 and / or CEACAM5), LAG3, TIGIT, CTLA -4, BTLA and LAIR1. In one embodiment, checkpoint inhibitor expressing cells are removed simultaneously with regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ cells. For example, an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, and an anti-checkpoint inhibitor antibody, or fragment thereof, can be coupled to the same beads that can be used to remove cells, or an anti-CD25 antibody, or fragment thereof, and Anti-checkpoint inhibitor antibodies, or fragments thereof, can be attached to separate beads and the mixture used to remove cells. In other embodiments, the removal of regulatory T cells, eg, CD25+ cells, and the checkpoint inhibitor expressing cells are sequential, eg, can occur in either order.

[0337] In one embodiment, the T cell population comprises IFN-g, TNFa, IL-17A, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, GM-CSF, IL-10, IL-13, granzyme B, and perforin, or other suitable molecules, such as those expressing one or more other cytokines. Methods of screening for cellular expression can be determined, for example, by the methods described in PCT Publication No. WO2013 / 126712.

[0338] The concentrations of cells and surfaces (eg, particles such as beads) can be varied to isolate desired cell populations by positive or negative selection. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to significantly reduce the volume in which the beads and cells are mixed together (eg, increase the cell concentration) to ensure maximum cell-bead contact. For example, in one embodiment a concentration of 2 billion cells / ml is used. In one embodiment, a concentration of 1 billion cells / ml is used. In further embodiments, greater than 100 million cells / ml are used. In further embodiments, cell concentrations of 10 million, 15 million, 20 million, 25 million, 30 million, 35 million, 40 million, 45 million, or 50 million cells / ml are used. In a further embodiment, cell concentrations of 75 million, 80 million, 85 million, 90 million, 95 million, or 100 million cells / ml are used. In further embodiments, a concentration of 125 million or 150 million cells / ml may be used.

[0339] Using high concentrations can result in increased cell yield, cell activation, and cell proliferation. In addition, the use of high cell concentrations allows for the removal of cells that may weakly express the target antigen of interest, such as CD28-negative T cells, or cells derived from samples where many tumor cells are present (e.g., leukemia blood, tumor tissue, etc.). More efficient capture becomes possible. Such cell populations may have therapeutic value and would be desirable to obtain. For example, the use of high concentrations of cells allows for more efficient selection of CD8+ T cells, which normally have weak CD28 expression.

[0340] In related embodiments, it may be desirable to use lower concentrations of cells. By significantly diluting the mixture of T cells and surfaces (eg, particles such as beads), interactions between particles and cells are minimized. This selects cells that express large amounts of the desired antigen to be bound to the particles. For example, CD4+ T cells express higher levels of CD28 and are captured more efficiently than CD8+ T cells at dilute concentrations.

[0341] In one embodiment, the concentration of cells used is 5 x 10e6 / ml. In other embodiments, the concentration used can be about 1 x 105 / ml to 1 x 106 / ml, and any integer value therebetween.

[0342] In other embodiments, cells may be incubated at various speeds for different lengths of time, either at 2-10° C. or at room temperature on a rotator. T cells for stimulation can also be frozen after the washing step. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the freezing step and subsequent thawing step provides a more homogeneous product by removing granulocytes and to some extent monocytes in the cell population. After a washing step to remove plasma and platelets, the cells may be suspended in a freezing solution. Although many freezing solutions and parameters are known in the art and would be useful in this regard, one method is PBS containing 20% ​​DMSO and 8% human serum albumin; Dextran 40 and 5% Dextrose, 20% Human Serum Albumin and 7.5% DMSO, or 31.25% Plasmalyte-A, 31.25% Dextrose 5%, 0.45% NaCl, 10% Dextran 40 and 5% Dextrose, 20% Human Serum Albumin, and using a culture medium containing 7.5% DMSO or other suitable cell freezing medium containing, for example, Hespan and PlasmaLyte A, and then the cells are frozen to -80 °C at a rate of 1 °C / min; Stored in the gas phase in liquid nitrogen storage tanks. Other controlled freezing methods may be used, as well as immediate uncontrolled freezing at -20°C or in liquid nitrogen.

[0343] In certain embodiments, cryopreserved cells are thawed and washed as described herein, allowed to stand at room temperature for 1 hour, and then activated using the methods of the present disclosure.

[0344] Collection of blood samples or apheresis products from a subject at a time before cell expansion as described herein may be required is also contemplated in the context of the present invention. Thus, the source of cells to be expanded can be harvested at any time needed and the desired cells, such as T cells, can be isolated and benefit from T cell therapy such as those described herein. can be frozen for later use in T cell therapy for any number of diseases or conditions.

[0345] In one aspect, the blood sample or apheresis is taken from a generally healthy subject. In certain embodiments, the blood sample or apheresis is obtained from a generally healthy subject who is at risk of developing the disease, but has not yet developed the disease, and the cells of interest are isolated for later use. will be frozen. In certain embodiments, T cells may be expanded, frozen, and subsequently used. In certain embodiments, the sample is taken from the patient immediately after diagnosis of a particular disease as described herein, but prior to any treatment.

[0346] In further embodiments, the cells are treated with any number of related treatments, such as drugs such as natalizumab, efalizumab, antiviral agents, chemotherapy, radiation, immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine, azathioprine, methotrexate, mycophenolic acid, and Treatment with antibodies or other immunoablative agents such as FK506, such as CAMPATH, anti-CD3 antibodies, cytoxan, fludarabine, cyclosporine, FK506, rapamycin, mycophenolic acid, steroids, FR901228, etc., as well as radiation. isolated from a blood sample or apheresis derived from the subject prior to treatment, including but not limited to.

[0347] In a further aspect of the disclosure, T cells are obtained from a patient immediately following treatment that leaves the subject with functional T cells. In this regard, after certain cancer treatments, particularly with drugs that damage the immune system, is the quality of the T cells obtained immediately after treatment during the period when the patient typically recovers from treatment optimal? , or their ability to grow ex vivo.

[0348] Similarly, after ex vivo manipulation using the methods described herein, these cells may be in a state favorable for enhanced engraftment and in vivo expansion. Therefore, harvesting blood cells, including T cells, dendritic cells, or other cells of the hematopoietic lineage, during this recovery period is contemplated within the context of this disclosure. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the mobilization (e.g., mobilization with GM-CSF) and conditioning regimens promote the repopulation, recirculation, regeneration, and / or Proliferation may be used to create favorable conditions in a subject. Exemplary cell types include T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, and other cells of the immune system.

[0349] In some embodiments, the T cell population is diaglycerol kinase (DGK) deficient. DGK-deficient cells include cells that do not express DGK RNA or protein, or cells in which DGK activity is reduced or inhibited. DGK-deficient cells can be generated by genetic approaches, eg, administering RNA interference agents such as siRNA, shRNA, miRNA to reduce or prevent DGK expression. Alternatively, DGK-deficient cells can be generated by treatment with DGK inhibitors as described herein.

[0350] In one embodiment, the T cell population is Ikaros deficient. Ikaros-deficient cells include cells that do not express Ikaros RNA or protein, or cells in which Ikaros activity is reduced or inhibited; shRNA, which can be produced by administering miRNA to reduce or prevent Ikaros expression.

[0351] Alternatively, Ikaros-deficient cells can be generated by treatment with an Ikaros inhibitor, such as lenalidomide. In embodiments, the T cell population is DGK-deficient and Ikaros-deficient, eg, does not express DGK and Ikaros, or has reduced or inhibited DGK and Ikaros activity. Such DGK and Ikaros-deficient cells can be generated by any of the methods described herein. In one embodiment, the NK cells are obtained from the subject. In another embodiment, the NK cell is a NK cell line, such as the NK-92 cell line (Conkwest).

[0352] Allogeneic CAR immune effector cells In embodiments described herein, the immune effector cells may be allogeneic immune effector cells, such as T cells or NK cells. For example, the cells may be allogeneic T cells, e.g., allogeneic T cells lacking expression of a functional T cell receptor (TCR) and / or human leukocyte antigen (HLA), e.g., HLA class I and / or HLA class II. It can be.

[0353] A T cell lacking a functional TCR can be engineered, for example, so that it does not express any functional TCR on its surface, or engineered so that it does not express one or more subunits that contain a functional TCR. or it may be engineered to produce very little functional TCR on its surface. Alternatively, a T cell may express a TCR that is substantially impaired, eg, by expression of a mutated or truncated form of one or more of the subunits of the TCR. The term "substantially impaired TCR" means that the TCR does not elicit an adverse immune response in the host.

[0354] A T cell described herein can be engineered, for example, so that it does not express functional HLA on its surface. For example, the T cells described herein can be engineered such that cell surface expressed HLA, eg, HLA class I and / or HLA class II, is downregulated.

[0355] In some embodiments, the T cell may lack a functional TCR and functional HLA, eg, HLA class I and / or HLA class II. Modified T cells lacking functional TCR and / or HLA expression may be obtained by any suitable means, including knockout or knockdown of one or more subunits of the TCR or HLA. For example, T cells use siRNA, shRNA, regularly spaced clustered short repeat palindromes (CRISPR), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), or zinc finger endonucleases (ZFNs). , may include knockdown of TCR and / or HLA.

[0356] In some embodiments, an allogeneic cell can be a cell that does not express the inhibitory molecule or does express it at low levels, eg, by any of the methods described herein. For example, the cell may be one that does not express, or expresses at low levels, an inhibitory molecule that may, for example, reduce the ability of a CAR-expressing cell to mount an immune effector response. Examples of inhibitory molecules include PD1, PD-L1, CTLA4, TIM3, LAG3, VISTA, BTLA, TIGIT, LAIR1, CD160, 2B4, CD80, CD86, B7-H3(CD276), B7-H4(VTCN1), HVEM (TNFRSF14 or CD270), KIR, A2aR, MHC class I, MHC class II, GAL9, and adenosine. Inhibition of inhibitory molecules, eg, by inhibition at the DNA, RNA or protein level, may optimize the performance of CAR expressing cells. In embodiments, an inhibitory nucleic acid, e.g., an inhibitory nucleic acid as described herein, e.g., dsRNA, e.g., siRNA or shRNA, regularly spaced clustered short repeat palindromic sequences (CRISPR), Transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) or zinc finger endonucleases (ZFNs) can be used.

[0357] siRNA and shRNA that inhibit TCR or HLA In some embodiments, TCR expression and / or HLA expression is expressed in a cell, e.g., a T cell, by a nucleic acid encoding TCR and / or HLA, and / or an inhibitory molecule (e.g., PD1, PD-L1, PD -L2, CTLA4, TIM3, CEACAM (e.g. CEACAM-1, CEACAM-3 and / or CEACAM-5), LAG3, VISTA, BTLA, TIGIT, LAIR1, CD160, 2B4, CD80, CD86, B7-H3 (CD276) , B7-H4 (VTCN1), HVEM (TNFRSF14 or CD270), KIR, A2aR, MHC class I, MHC class II, GAL9, and adenosine).

[0358] Expression systems for siRNA and shRNA, as well as exemplary shRNAs, are described, for example, in paragraphs 649 and 650 of International Publication WO2015 / 142675, filed March 13, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0359] CRISPR inhibits TCR or HLA "CRISPR" or "CRISPR against TCR and / or HLA" or "CRISPR inhibiting TCR and / or HLA" as used herein refers to regularly spaced clustered short repeat palindromes. Refers to a set of sequences or a system comprising a set of such repetitive sequences. "Cas" as used herein refers to CRISPR-associated proteins.

[0360] The "CRISPR / Cas" system is used to target TCR and / or HLA genes and / or inhibitory molecules (e.g., PD1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA4, TIM3, CEACAM (e.g., CEACAM-1, CEACAM-3 and / or CEACAM-5), LAG3, VISTA, BTLA, TIGIT, LAIR1, CD160, 2B4, CD80, CD86, B7-H3 (CD276), B7-H4 (VTCN1), HVEM (TNFRSF14) or CD270), KIR, A2aR, MHC class I, MHC class II, GAL9, and adenosine). The CRISPR / Cas system and its use is described, for example, in paragraphs 651-658 of International Publication WO2015 / 142675, filed March 13, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0361] TALENs that inhibit TCR and / or HLA "TALEN" or "TALEN against HLA and / or TCR" or "TALEN inhibiting HLA and / or TCR" means HLA and / or TCR genes and / or inhibitory molecules (e.g. , PD1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA4, TIM3, CEACAM (e.g. CEACAM-1, CEACAM-3 and / or CEACAM-5), LAG3, VISTA, BTLA, TIGIT, LAIR1, CD160, 2B4, CD80, Artificial nucleases that can be used to edit CD86, B7-H3 (CD276), B7-H4 (VTCN1), HVEM (TNFRSF14 or CD270), KIR, A2aR, MHC class I, MHC class II, GAL9, and adenosine) refers to a transcription activator-like effector nuclease.

[0362] TALENs and their uses are described, for example, in paragraphs 659-665 of International Publication WO2015 / 142675, filed March 13, 2015, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0363] Zinc finger nucleases that inhibit HLA and / or TCR "ZFN" or "zinc finger nuclease" or "ZFN against HLA and / or TCR" or "ZFN that inhibits HLA and / or TCR" refers to HLA and / or TCR genes and / or inhibitory molecules (e.g. PD1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA4, TIM3, CEACAM (e.g. CEACAM-1, CEACAM-3 and / or CEACAM-5), LAG3, VISTA, BTLA, TIGIT, LAIR1, to edit CD160, 2B4, CD80, CD86, B7-H3 (CD276), B7-H4 (VTCN1), HVEM (TNFRSF14 or CD270), KIR, A2aR, MHC class I, MHC class II, GAL9, and adenosine) Refers to zinc finger nuclease, an artificial nuclease that can be used for.

[0364] ZFNs and their uses are described, for example, in paragraphs 666 to 671 of International Publication WO2015 / 142675, filed March 13, 2015, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0365] Telomerase expression Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, in some embodiments, the therapeutic T cells have short-term persistence in the patient due to shortening of telomeres in the T cells, and thus , transfection with the telomerase gene can lengthen T cell telomeres and improve T cell persistence in patients. See Carl June, “Adoptive T cell therapy for cancer in the clinic,” Journal of Clinical Investigation, 117:1466-1476 (2007). Thus, in one embodiment, the immune effector cell, e.g., a T cell, ectopically expresses a telomerase subunit, e.g., the catalytic subunit of telomerase, e.g., TERT, e.g., hTERT. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of producing a CAR-expressing cell, which comprises producing a cell expressing a telomerase subunit, e.g., a catalytic subunit of telomerase, e.g., TERT, e.g., hTERT. including contact with. The cell may be contacted with the nucleic acid before, simultaneously with, or after contacting with the construct encoding the CAR.

[0366] In one aspect, the disclosure features a method of generating a population of immune effector cells (eg, T cells, NK cells). In one embodiment, the method includes: providing a population of immune effector cells (e.g., T cells or NK cells), contacting the population of immune effector cells with a nucleic acid encoding a CAR, and Contacting a population of immune effector cells with a nucleic acid encoding a telomerase subunit, e.g., hTERT, under conditions that allow telomerase expression.

[0367] In one embodiment, the nucleic acid encoding the telomerase subunit is DNA. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid encoding a telomerase subunit comprises a promoter capable of driving expression of telomerase subunit AAC5 1724.1 (Meyerson et ah, “hEST2, the Putative Human Telomerase Catalytic Subunit Gene, Is Up-Regulated in Tumor Cells and during Immortalization”Cell Volume 90, Issue 4, 22 August 1997, Pages 785-795).

[0368] Method of treatment The present invention relates to a therapeutic method comprising administering an anti-GCC antigen binding molecule to a subject. In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CARs and antigen binding molecules disclosed herein can be used in methods of treating or preventing diseases in mammals. In this regard, one embodiment provides a method of treating or preventing cancer in a mammal, which method comprises administering to the mammal a CAR, a nucleic acid, a recombinant expression vector, a host cell, a cell population, an antibody and / or a cancer. administering the antigen-binding portion thereof and / or the pharmaceutical composition in an amount effective to treat or prevent cancer in the mammal. The invention also relates to anti-GCC antigen binding molecules (eg, sdAbs or CARs) as described herein for use in treating disease. The invention also relates to anti-GCC antigen binding molecules (eg, sdAbs or CARs) as described herein for use in the treatment of cancer. The invention also relates to anti-GCC antigen binding molecules (eg, sdAbs or CARs) as described herein for use in the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of cancer.

[0369] Administration of the compositions described herein may be carried out in any convenient manner, including by aerosol inhalation, injection, ingestion, blood transfusion, implantation or transplantation. The compositions described herein may be administered to a patient by transarterial, subcutaneous, intradermal, intratumoral, intranodal, intramedullary, intramuscular, intravenous (i.v.) injection, or intraperitoneally. . In one embodiment, the compositions described herein, including, for example, CAR-expressing cells, are administered to a patient by intradermal or subcutaneous injection. In one embodiment, for example, a composition described herein comprising CAR-expressing cells is administered by i.v. injection. For example, compositions described herein containing CAR-expressing cells may be injected directly into a tumor, lymph node, or site of infection.

[0370] Generally, pharmaceutical compositions comprising immune effector cells described herein may be administered at a dosage of 104-109 cells / kg body weight, in some cases 105-106 cells / kg body weight, and they may be written to include all integer values ​​within the range. The immune effector cell composition may also be administered multiple times at these dosages. Cells can be administered by using injection techniques commonly known in immunotherapy (see, eg, Rosenberg et al., New Eng. J. of Med. 319:1676, 1988).

[0371] In certain embodiments, activated immune effector cells are administered to a subject, and then blood is then withdrawn again (or apheresis is performed) and the cells are then activated in accordance with the present invention to form these activated and proliferating cells. It may be desirable to reinfuse the patient with This process may be performed multiple times every few weeks. In certain embodiments, cells can be activated from a 10cc to 400cc blood draw. In certain embodiments, cells are activated from a 20cc, 30cc, 40cc, 50cc, 60cc, 70cc, 80cc, 90cc, or 100cc blood draw.

[0372] In some embodiments, the anti-GCC CAR is expressed on donor cells. In some embodiments, donor T cells for use in T cell therapy are obtained from a patient (eg, for autologous T cell therapy). In other embodiments, donor T cells for use in T cell therapy are obtained from a subject that is not a patient (eg, for allogeneic T cell therapy). CAR+ T cells may be administered in a therapeutically effective amount. For example, a therapeutically effective amount of T cells is at least about 10 4 cells, at least about 10 5 cells, at least about 10 6 cells, at least about 10 7 cells, at least about 10 8 cells, at least about 10 9 , or at least about 10 10 It may be.

[0373] In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of T cells is about 10 4 cells, about 10 5 cells, about 10 6 cells, about 10 7 cells, or about 10 8 It is a cell. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR T cells is about 2 x 10 6 cells / kg, approximately 3×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 4×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 5×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 6×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 7×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 8×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 9×10 6 cells / kg, approximately 1×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 2×107 cells / kg, approximately 3×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 4×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 5×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 6×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 7×10 7 cells / kg, approximately 8×10 7 cells / kg, or approximately 9×10 7 cells / kg. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR-positive viable T cells is about 1 x 10 6 ~about 2×10 6 of CAR-positive viable T cells / kg body weight, approximately 1 x 10 of the maximum dose 8 CAR-positive viable T cells.

[0374] In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR-positive viable T cells is about 0.25 x 10 6 ~2×10 6 It is between. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR-positive viable T cells is about 0.25 x 10 6 ,0.3×10 6 ,0.4×10 6 , about 0.5×10 6 , about 0.6×10 6 , about 0.7×10 6 , about 0.8×10 6 , about 0.9×10 6 , about 1.0×10 6 , about 1.1×10 6 , about 1.2×10 6 , about 1.3×10 6 , about 1.4×10 6 , about 1.5×10 6 , about 1.6×10 6 , about 1.7×10 6 , about 1.8×10 6 , about 1.9×10 6 , or about 2.0×10 6 CAR-positive viable T cells.

[0375] In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR-positive viable T cells is about 0.4 x 10 8 ~about 2×10 8 CAR-positive viable T cells. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of CAR-positive viable T cells is about 0.4 x 10 8 , about 0.5×10 8 , about 0.6×10 8 , about 0.7×10 8 , about 0.8×10 8 , about 0.9×10 8 , about 1.0×10 8 , about 1.1×10 8 , about 1.2×10 8 , about 1.3×10 8 , about 1.4×10 8 , about 1.5×10 8 , about 1.6×10 8 , about 1.7×10 8 , about 1.8×10 8 , about 1.9×10 8 , or about 2.0×10 8 CAR-positive viable T cells.

[0376] In some embodiments, the dose of CAR-expressing cells (e.g., CAR-expressing cells described herein, e.g., GCC CAR-expressing cells described herein) is about 1 x 106 cells / m2~ About 1 x 10 cells / m2, such as about 1 x 10 cells / m2 to about 5 x 10 cells / m2, such as about 1.5 x 10 cells / m2, about 2 x 10 cells / m2, about 4.5 x 10 cells / m2. m2, about 108 cells / m2, about 1.2 x 108 cells / m2, or about 2 x 108 cells / m2.

[0377] The present disclosure includes (among other things) types of cell therapy in which T cells are genetically modified to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and the CAR T cells are infused into a recipient in need thereof. The injected cells can kill tumor cells in the recipient. Unlike antibody therapy, CAR-engineered T cells can replicate in vivo, resulting in long-term persistence that can result in sustained tumor control. In various embodiments, the T cells administered to the patient are administered at least 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 7 months, 8 months, 9 months, 10 months after administering the T cells to the patient. month, 11 months, 12 months, 13 months, 14 months, 15 months, 16 months, 17 months, 18 months, 19 months, 20 months, 21 months, 22 months, Persist within the patient for 23 months, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, or 5 years.

[0378] In some embodiments, GCC CAR expressing cells are administered in multiple doses, eg, a first dose, a second dose, and optionally a third dose. In embodiments, the method includes treating a subject (e.g., an adult subject) with cancer (e.g., colorectal cancer), and the method comprises administering to the subject a first dose, a second dose, and optionally a second dose. administering one or more additional doses, each dose comprising an immune effector cell expressing a CAR molecule, eg, a GCC CAR molecule, eg, a CAR molecule provided in Table 7.

[0379] In embodiments, the method uses 2 to 5 × 10 6 of living CAR-expressing cells / kg, the subject has a body weight of less than 50 kg, or 1.0 to 2.5 × 10 8 of living CAR-expressing cells, and the subject has a body weight of at least 50 kg.

[0380] In embodiments, a single dose is administered to a subject, eg, a pediatric subject or an adult subject.

[0381] In embodiments, the doses are administered on consecutive days, e.g., the first dose is administered on day 1, the second dose is administered on day 2, and any third dose (if administered) is administered on day 3. Administered on day one.

[0382] In embodiments, a fourth, fifth, or sixth dose, or more, is administered.

[0383] In embodiments, the first dose includes about 10% of the total dose, the second dose includes about 30% of the total dose, and the third dose includes about 60% of the total dose, and the sum of the aforementioned percentages is 100%. %. In embodiments, the first dose comprises about 9-11%, 8-12%, 7-13%, or 5-15% of the total dose. In embodiments, the second dose is about 29-31%, 28-32%, 27-33%, 26-34%, 25-35%, 24-36%, 23-37%, 22- Contains 38%, 21-39%, or 20-40%. In embodiments, the third dose comprises about 55-65%, 50-70%, 45-75%, or 40-80% of the total dose. In embodiments, the total dose refers to the total number of viable CAR-expressing cells administered over 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, or 4 weeks. In some embodiments where two doses are administered, the total dose refers to the sum of the number of viable CAR-expressing cells administered to the subject in the first and second doses. In some embodiments where three doses are administered, the total dose refers to the sum of the number of viable CAR-expressing cells administered to the subject in the first, second, and third doses.

[0384] In embodiments, the dose is measured according to the number of viable CAR-expressing cells therein. CAR expression can be measured, for example, by flow cytometry using an antibody molecule and a detectable label that binds the CAR molecule. Viability can be measured, for example, by Cellometer.

[0385] The present invention also provides that immune effector cells, e.g., NK cells or T cells, are modified, e.g., by in vitro transcribed RNA, to transiently express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), such that CAR expression , CART) include types of cell therapy in which cells are injected into a recipient in need. The injected cells can kill cancer cells in the recipient. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the CAR-expressing cells, e.g., T cells, that are administered to the patient are administered for less than 1 month, e.g., 3 weeks, 2 weeks, after administering the CAR-expressing cells, e.g., T cells, to the patient. Existed for 1 week.

[0386] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the anti-cancer immune response elicited by CAR-modified T cells may be an active or passive immune response, or alternatively a direct versus indirect immune response. This may be due to In one aspect, CAR (e.g., GCC-CAR) transduced T cells exhibit specific inflammatory cytokine secretion and potent cytolytic activity in response to human cancer cells expressing a target antigen (e.g., GCC). , resists soluble target antigen inhibition, mediates bystander killing, and mediates regression of existing human cancers. For example, antigen-free cancer cells within heterogeneous regions of target antigen-expressing cancers may be susceptible to indirect destruction by target antigen-redirecting T cells that have previously reacted against adjacent antigen-positive cancer cells. There is sex.

[0387] In one aspect, the disclosure features a method of treating cancer in a subject. The method includes administering to the subject a therapy that includes administering CAR-expressing cells (eg, GCC CAR-expressing cells) such that cancer is treated in the subject. In one embodiment, the therapy of CAR-expressing cells (e.g., GCC CAR-expressing cells) described herein includes improving or increasing the anti-tumor activity of CAR-expressing cells (e.g., GCC CAR-expressing cells), increased proliferation or persistence of CAR-expressing cells, improved or increased infiltration of CAR-expressing cells, improved inhibition of tumor progression, delayed tumor progression, inhibited or decreased cancer cell proliferation, and / or tumor burden, e.g., tumor volume, or result in one or more of the following: a decrease in size; In one embodiment, the therapy results in an increase in the persistence of CAR-expressing cells and / or an increase in the persistence of CAR-expressing cells and a reduction, eg, a decrease, in the risk of recurrence.

[0388] The invention provides methods of inhibiting or reducing the proliferation of antigen-expressing (eg, GCC-expressing) cell populations. In one embodiment, the method includes administering a CAR therapy (eg, a population of CAR-expressing cells). In certain embodiments, the therapies described herein provide an antigen ( In a subject or animal model thereof, the number, number, amount or percentage of cells and / or cancer cells is at least 5% , 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70 %, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%. In one embodiment, the subject is a mammal. In some embodiments, the subject is a human.

[0389] The present invention also provides methods for preventing, treating and / or managing disorders, such as disorders associated with antigen-expressing cells (e.g., GCC-expressing cells) (e.g., cancers described herein), The method includes administering a CAR-expressing cell (eg, a GCC CAR-expressing cell, a population of CAR-expressing cells) to a subject in need thereof. In one aspect, the subject is a human.

[0390] In one aspect, the invention relates to a method of inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells (e.g., antigen-expressing, e.g., GCC-expressing cancer cells), the method comprising: contacting a cancer cell with a CAR-expressing (e.g., GCC CAR-expressing) cell as described herein, e.g., a GCC CART cell, such that the cell is targeted and cancer growth is inhibited. .

[0391] The present disclosure also provides methods for preventing, treating, and / or managing diseases, such as diseases associated with antigen-expressing (e.g., GCC-expressing) cells (e.g., cancers expressing antigens, e.g., GCC); The method includes administering to a subject in need thereof CAR-expressing (eg, GCC CAR-expressing) cells that bind to antigen-expressing cells. In some embodiments, the subject is a human.

[0392] The present disclosure also provides methods for preventing, treating and / or managing diseases associated with antigen-expressing (e.g., GCC-expressing) cells, wherein the present invention binds to antigen-expressing (e.g., GCC-expressing) cells. CART cells (eg, anti-GCC CART cells) to a subject in need thereof. In one aspect, the subject is a human.

[0393] The present disclosure also provides, for example, a method of preventing recurrence of cancer associated with antigen-expressing (e.g., GCC-expressing) cells, which method comprises: comprising administering CART cells (eg, anti-GCC CART cells) to a subject in need thereof. In one aspect, the method provides an effective amount of a CART cell described herein (e.g., an anti-GCC CART cell) that binds to an antigen-expressing (e.g., GCC-expressing) cell in combination with an effective amount of another therapy. ) to a subject in need thereof.

[0394] One embodiment further comprises lymphodepleting the mammal prior to administering the CAR disclosed herein. Examples of lymphocyte depletion include, but are not limited to, non-myeloablative lymphodepleting chemotherapy, myeloablative lymphodepletion chemotherapy, total body irradiation, and the like.

[0395] In certain exemplary embodiments, the subject may undergo leukapheresis, in which leukocytes are collected, enriched, or depleted ex vivo to select and / or isolate cells of interest, e.g., T cells. These T cell isolates may be expanded by methods known in the art and processed to introduce one or more CAR constructs of the invention, thereby generating CAR T cells of the invention. Subsequently, subjects in need may undergo standard treatment with high-dose chemotherapy followed by peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. In certain embodiments, after or concurrently with transplantation, the subject receives an infusion of expanded CAR-expressing cells of the invention. In additional embodiments, the proliferating cells are administered before or after surgery.

[0396] For purposes of the method by which the host cell or population of cells is administered, the cells can be allogeneic or autologous to the mammal. Preferably, the cells are autologous to the mammal. As used herein, homologous means any substance that is derived from a different animal of the same species as the individual into which the substance is introduced. Two or more individuals are said to be the same species as each other if the genes at one or more loci are not identical. In some embodiments, allogeneic materials from individuals of the same species may be genetically distinct enough to antigenically interact. As used herein, the term "self" refers to any substance that originates from the same individual when that substance is later reintroduced into the individual.

[0397] A mammal referred to herein may be any mammal. As used herein, the term "mammal" refers to any mammal, including, but not limited to, mammals of the order Rodentia, such as mice and hamsters, and mammals of the order Lagomorpha, such as rabbits. refers to The mammal may be from the order Carnivora, including the family Felidae (cats) and the family Canidae (dogs). The mammal may be from the order Artiodactyla, which includes the family Bovidae (cows) and the Swine (pig), or the order Perissodactyla, which includes the family Equidae (horses). The mammal may be of the order Primates, Ceboids, or Simoids (monkeys) or the order Masimians (humans and apes). In some embodiments, the mammal is a human.

[0398] For this method, the cancer may include acute lymphoid cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, bladder cancer (e.g., bladder carcinoma), bone cancer, brain cancer (e.g., medulloblastoma), breast cancer, anal cancer. , cancer of the anal canal or anorectum, cancer of the eye, cancer of the intrahepatic bile ducts, cancer of the joints, cancer of the neck, gallbladder, or pleura, cancer of the nose, nasal cavity, or middle ear, cancer of the oral cavity, cancer of the vulva. cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myeloid cancer, colon cancer, esophageal cancer, cervical cancer, fibrosarcoma, gastrointestinal carcinoid tumor, head and neck cancer (e.g. head and neck squamous cell carcinoma), Hodgkin lymphoma, hypopharyngeal cancer , kidney cancer, laryngeal cancer, leukemia, liquid tumors, liver cancer, lung cancer (e.g. non-small cell lung cancer and lung adenocarcinoma), lymphoma, mesothelioma, mast cell tumor, melanoma, multiple myeloma, nasopharynx Cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, B chronic lymphocytic leukemia, hairy cell leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), Burkitt's lymphoma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, peritoneal cancer, omental cancer, and mesenteric cancer, pharyngeal cancer, It can be any cancer, including any of prostate cancer, rectal cancer, kidney cancer, skin cancer, small intestine cancer, soft tissue cancer, solid tumors, synovial sarcoma, gastric cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, and ureteral cancer.

[0399] In certain embodiments, the cancer is gastrointestinal cancer. In some embodiments, the cancer is gastric cancer. In some embodiments, the cancer is colorectal cancer. In some embodiments, the cancer is colon cancer. In some embodiments, the cancer has aberrant expression of GCC.

[0400] The terms "treat" and "prevent" as well as words derived therefrom, as used herein, do not necessarily imply 100% or complete treatment or prevention. Rather, there are varying degrees of treatment or prevention that those skilled in the art would recognize as having potential benefit or therapeutic effect. In this regard, the methods may provide for treatment or prevention of any amount or level of cancer in a mammal.

[0401] Additionally, treatment or prevention provided by the present methods may include treatment or prevention of one or more conditions or symptoms of the disease being treated or prevented, such as cancer. Also, for purposes herein, "prevention" may include delaying the onset of a disease, or a symptom or condition thereof.

[0402] Another embodiment provides a method of detecting the presence of cancer in a mammal, the method comprising: (a) preparing a sample comprising one or more cells derived from the mammal to contain a CAR, a nucleic acid, a recombinantly expressed (b) and detecting the complex by contacting the vector, the host cell, the cell population, the antibody and / or the antigen-binding portion thereof, or the pharmaceutical composition; , including indicating the presence of cancer in mammals. In some embodiments, the contacting may occur in vitro or in vivo with respect to the mammal. In some embodiments, the contacting is in vitro.

[0403] The sample may be obtained by any suitable method, eg, biopsy or autopsy. A biopsy is the removal of tissue and / or cells from an individual. Such removal may be collecting tissues and / or cells from the individual in order to perform experiments on the removed tissues and / or cells. This experimentation may include experimentation to determine whether an individual has and / or is suffering from a particular condition or disease state. The condition or disease can be, for example, cancer.

[0404] For embodiments of methods for detecting the presence of a proliferative disorder, e.g., cancer, in a mammal, the sample comprising mammalian cells may include whole cells, a lysate thereof, or a fraction of a whole cell lysate, e.g. Or it can be a sample containing a cytosolic fraction, a total protein fraction, or a nucleic acid fraction. If the sample includes whole cells, the cells can be of any organ or tissue of a mammal, including blood cells or endothelial cells.

[0405] Additionally, detection of the complex may be performed by any number of methods known in the art. For example, the CARs, polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, host cells, cell populations, or antibodies described herein, or antigen-binding portions thereof, disclosed herein may be detectable labels such as radioisotopes, fluorophores (e.g., fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), phycoerythrin (PE)), enzymes (e.g., alkaline phosphatase, horseradish peroxidase), and elemental particles (e.g., gold particles).

[0406] Methods of testing CARs for their ability to recognize target cells and antigen specificity are known in the art. For example, Clay et al., J. Immunol, 163:507-513 (1999) have reported that cytokines (e.g., interferon-γ, granulocyte / monocyte colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), tumor necrosis factor a (TNF- teaches methods for measuring the release of α) or interleukin 2 (IL-2)). Additionally, CAR function can be assessed by measuring cytotoxicity as described in Zhao et al, J. Immunol, 174:4415-4423 (2005).

[0407] Another embodiment provides a CAR, nucleic acid, recombinant expression vector, host cell, cell population, antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof of the invention for the treatment or prevention of a proliferative disorder, such as cancer, in a mammal. , and / or the use of a pharmaceutical composition. The cancer may be any of the cancers described herein.

[0408] Any method of administration for the disclosed therapeutic agents may be used, including local and systemic administration. For example, topical, oral, intravascular, eg, intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, intranasal, intradermal, intrathecal, and subcutaneous administration may be used. The particular method and regimen of administration will be selected by the attending clinician in view of the particulars of the case (eg, the subject, the disease, the disease state involved, and whether the treatment is prophylactic). If more than one agent or composition is administered, more than one route of administration may be used, for example, the chemotherapeutic agent may be administered orally, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment or conjugate or composition may be administered intravenously. Methods of administration include CAR, CAR T cells, conjugates, antibodies, antigen-binding fragments, or compositions in a non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, such as water, saline, Ringer's solution, dextrose solution, etc. % human serum albumin, fixed oils, ethyl oleate, or liposomes. In some embodiments, local administration of the disclosed compounds is used, for example, by applying an antibody or antigen-binding fragment to an area of ​​tissue from which a tumor has been removed or an area suspected of being susceptible to tumor development. can be done. In some embodiments, sustained intratumoral (or proximal) release of a pharmaceutical preparation containing a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody or antigen-binding fragment may be beneficial. In other examples, the complex is applied intraocularly as eye drops, topically to the cornea, or intravitreally.

[0409] The disclosed therapeutic agents can be formulated in unit dosage forms suitable for individual administration of precise dosages. Additionally, the disclosed therapeutic agents may be administered in a single dose or multiple dose schedule. A multiple-dose schedule means that the primary treatment course uses two or more separate doses, e.g., 1 to 10 doses, followed by subsequent treatment as necessary to maintain or enhance the action of the composition. schedule in which other doses may be applied at time intervals. Treatment can include daily or multi-daily doses of the compound(s) over a period of days to months, or even years. Accordingly, dosage regimens will also be determined, at least in part, based on the particular needs of the subject being treated and will depend on the judgment of the administering practitioner.

[0410] In one embodiment, the CAR is introduced into immune effector cells using, for example, in vitro transcription, and the subject (e.g., human) receives an initial administration of the CAR-expressing cells of the invention, and have received one or more subsequent doses, and the one or more subsequent doses are less than 15 days after the previous dose, e.g., 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, Administered over 3 or 2 days. In one embodiment, two or more administrations of CAR-expressing cells of the invention are administered to a subject (e.g., a human) weekly, e.g., 2, 3, or 4 doses of CAR-expressing cells of the invention. Two doses are administered weekly. In one embodiment, a subject (e.g., a human subject) receives two or more administrations of CAR-expressing cells per week (e.g., two, three, or four administrations per week) (also referred to herein as cycles). ), followed by a week in which no CAR-expressing cells are administered, and then one or more additional doses of CAR-expressing cells (e.g., two or more doses of CAR-expressing cells per week) are administered to the subject. be done. In another embodiment, the subject (e.g., a human subject) receives two or more cycles of CAR-expressing cells, and the period between each cycle is less than 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, or 3 days. It is. In one embodiment, the CAR-expressing cells are administered every other day for three doses per week. In one embodiment, the CAR-expressing cells of the invention are administered for at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more weeks.

[0411] Typical dosages of antibodies or conjugates can range from about 0.01 to about 30 mg / kg, such as from about 0.1 to about 10 mg / kg.

[0412] In certain instances, a subject receives a therapeutic composition comprising one or more of a conjugate, an antibody, a composition, a CAR, a CAR T cell, or an additional agent for multiple consecutive days, such as for at least 10 consecutive days. Administered on a daily dosing schedule, eg, over a period of weeks, months, or years. In one example, the subject uses the conjugate, antibody, for a period of at least 30 days, such as at least 2 months, at least 4 months, at least 6 months, at least 12 months, at least 24 months, or at least 36 months. , composition or additional agent.

[0413] In some embodiments, the disclosed methods are performed in combination (e.g., sequentially, substantially simultaneously, or simultaneously) with a disclosed antibody, antigen-binding fragment, conjugate, CAR, or T cell expressing a CAR. Including providing surgery, radiation therapy, and / or chemotherapy drugs to a subject. Such agents and methods of treatment and therapeutic dosages are known to those skilled in the art and can be determined by the skilled clinician. Additional drug preparation and dosing schedules may be used according to manufacturer's instructions or as determined empirically by one of ordinary skill in the art. Preparation and dosing schedules for such chemotherapy are also described in Chemotherapy Service, (1992) Ed., M.C. Perry, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore, Md.

[0414] In some embodiments, combination therapy may include administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an additional cancer inhibitor. Non-limiting examples of additional therapeutic agents that may be used with combination therapy include microtubule binding agents, DNA intercalators or crosslinkers, DNA synthesis inhibitors, DNA and RNA transcription inhibitors, antibodies, enzymes, enzyme inhibitors. , gene modulators, and angiogenesis inhibitors. These agents (administered in therapeutically effective amounts) and treatments may be used alone or in combination. For example, any suitable anti-cancer or anti-angiogenic agent can be administered in combination with a CAR, CAR-T cell, antibody, antigen-binding fragment, or conjugate disclosed herein. Methods and therapeutic dosages of such agents are known to those skilled in the art and can be determined by the skilled clinician.

[0415] Additional chemotherapeutic agents include alkylating agents, such as nitrogen mustards (e.g., chlorambucil, chlormethine, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, and melphalan), nitrosoureas (e.g., carmustine, fotemustine, lomustine, and streptozocin). ), platinum compounds (e.g. carboplatin, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and BBR3464), busulfan, dacarbazine, mechlorethamine, procarbazine, temozolomide, thiotepa, and uramustine; antimetabolites, e.g. folic acid (e.g. methotrexate, pemetrexed, and raltitrexed); ), purines (e.g. cladribine, clofarabine, fludarabine, mercaptopurine, and thioguanine), pyrimidines (e.g. capecitabine), cytarabine, fluorouracil, and gemcitabine, plant alkaloids, e.g. podophyllum (e.g. etoposide, and teniposide), taxanes. Cytotoxic / anti-tumor antibiotics, such as vinca (e.g., vinblastine, vincristine, vindesine, and vinorelbine); monoclonal antibodies such as alemtuzumab, bevacizumab, cetuximab, gemtuzumab, rituximab, panitumumab, pertuzumab, and trastuzumab photosensitizers such as aminolevulinic acid, methyl aminolevulinate, porfimer sodium, and verteporfin, as well as other drugs such as alitretinoin, altretamine, amsacrine, anagrelide, arsenic trioxide, asparaginase, axitinib, bexarotene. , bevacizumab, bortezomib, celecoxib, denileukin diftitox, erlotinib, estramustine, gefitinib, hydroxycarbamide, imatinib, lapatinib, pazopanib, pentostatin, masprocol, mitotane, pegasparagase, tamoxifen, sorafenib, sunitinib, vemurafinib, vandetanib , and tretinoin, but are not limited to these. The selection of such agents and therapeutic dosages are known to those skilled in the art and can be determined by the skilled clinician.

[0416] Common chemotherapeutic agents considered for use in combination therapy include anastrozole (Arimidex®), bicalutamide (Casodex®), bleomycin sulfate (Blenoxane®), Busulfan (Myleran®), Busulfan Injection (Busulfex®), Capecitabine (Xeloda®), N4-pentoxycarbonyl-5-deoxy-5-fluorocytidine, Carboplatin (Paraplatin®) )), carmustine (BiCNU®), chlorambucil (Leukeran®), cisplatin (Platinol®), cladribine (Leustatin®), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan® or Neosar(R)), cytarabine, cytosine arabinoside (Cytosar-U(R)), cytarabine liposome injection (DepoCyt(R)), dacarbazine (DTIC-Dome(R)), dactinomycin( Actinomycin D, Cosmegan), Daunonbicin hydrochloride (Cembidine(R)), Daunonbicin citrate liposome injection (DaunoXome(R)), Dexamethasone, Docetaxel (Taxotere(R)), Doxorubicin hydrochloride ( Adriamycin®, Rubex®), etoposide (Vepesid®), fludarabine phosphate (Fludara®), 5-fluorouracil (Adrucil®, Efudex®), Flutamide (Eulexin®), tezacytibine, gemcitabine (difluorodeoxycytidine), hydroxyurea (Hydrea®), idarubicin (Idamycin®), ifosfamide (IFEX®), irinotecan (Camptosar®). ), L-asparaginase (ELSPAR(R)), leucovorin calcium, melphalan (Alkeran(R)), 6-mercaptopurine (Purinethol(R)), methotrexate (Folex(R)), mitoxantrone (Novantrone®), mylotarg, paclitaxel (Taxol®), fenix (yttrium 90 / MX-DTPA), pentostatin, carmustine-containing polyfeprosan 20 implant (Gliadel®), Tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex®), teniposide (Vumon®), 6-thioguanine, thiotepa, tirapazamine (Tirazone®), topotecan hydrochloride for injection (Hycamptin®), vinblastine ( Velban®), vincristine (Oncovin®), and vinorelbine (Navelbine®).

[0417] Exemplary alkylating agents are disclosed on pages 270-271 of International Application WO2016 / 164731, filed April 8, 2016, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Further examples include nitrogen mustard, ethyleneimine derivatives, alkyl sulfonates, nitrosoureas and triazenes): uracil mustard (Aminouracil Mustard®, Chlorethaminacil®, Demethyldopan®, Desmethyldopan®) , Haemanthamine(R), Nordopan(R), Uracil nitrogen mustard(R), Uracillost(R), Uracilmostaza(R), Uramustin(R), Uramustine(R)), Chlormethine(Mustargen(R)) ), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan(R), Neosar(R), Clafen(R), Endoxan(R), Procytox(R), Revimmune(R)), ifosfamide (Mitoxana(R)), (registered trademark)), melphalan (Alkeran(R)), chlorambucil (Leukeran(R)), pipobroman (Amedel(R), Vercyte(R)), triethylenemelamine (Hemel(R), Hexalen (R), Hexastat(R)), triethylenethiophosphoramine, temozolomide (Temodar(R)), thiotepa (Thioplex(R)), busulfan (Busilvex(R), Myleran(R)) , carmustine (BiCNU®), lomustine (CeeNU®), streptozocin (Zanosar®), and dacarbazine (DTIC-Dome®). Additional exemplary alkylating agents include oxaliplatin (Eloxatin®), temozolomide (Temodar® and Temodal®), dactinomycin (Actinomycin-D, Cosmegen®) Melphalan (also known as L-PAM, L-sarcolysin, and phenylalanine mustard, Alkeran®), altretamine (hexamethylmelamine (HMM), also known as Hexalen®) ), carmustine (BiCNU®), bendamustine (Treanda®), busulfan (Busulfex® and Myleran®), carboplatin (Paraplatin®), lomustine (CCNU, CeeNU( Cisplatin (also known as CDDP, Platinol® and Platinol®-AQ), Chlorambucil (Leukeran®), Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®) ) and Neosar®), dacarbazine (DTIC, DIC and imidazole carboxamide, also known as DTIC-Dome®), altretamine (hexamethylmelamine (HMM), also known as Hexalen®) , ifosfamide (Ifex®), Prednumustine, procarbazine (Matulane®), mechlorethamine (also known as nitrogen mustard, mustine and mechloroethamine hydrochloride, Mustargen®), streptozocin (Zanosar®) Thiotepa (also known as thiophosphoamide, TESPA and TSPA, Thioplex®), Cyclophosphamide (Endoxan®, Cytoxan®, Neosar®, Procytox®) ), Revimmune®), and bendamustine HC1 (Treanda®).

[0418] Exemplary platinum-based drugs include, but are not limited to, carboplatin, cisplatin, and oxaliplatin.

[0419] Exemplary angiogenesis inhibitors include A6 (Angstrom Pharmacueticals), ABT-510 (Abbott Laboratories), ABT-627 (Atrasentan) (Abbott Laboratories / Xinlay), ABT-869 (Abbott Laboratories), Actimid (CC4047), pomalidomide) (Celgene Corporation), AdGVPEDF.11D (GenVec), ADH-1 (Exherin) (Adherex Technologies), AEE788 (Novartis), AG-013736 (axitinib) (Pfizer), AG3340 (prinomastat) (Agouron Pharmaceuticals) , AGX1053 (AngioGenex), AGX51 (AngioGenex), ALN-VSP (ALN-VSP02) (Alnylam Pharmaceuticals), AMG386 (Amgen), AMG706 (Amgen), Apatinib (YN968D1) (Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine), AP23573 (Ridaforolimus / MK8669) (Ariad Pharmaceuticals), AQ4N (Novavea), ARQ197 (ArQule), ASA404 (Novartis / Antisoma), Atiprimod (Callisto Pharmaceuticals), ATN-161 (Attenuon), AV-412 (Aveo Pharmaceuticals), AV-951 (Aveo Pharmaceuticals), Avastin (bevacizumab) (Genentech), AZD2171 (cediranib / Recentin) (AstraZeneca), BAY57-9352 (teratinib) (Bayer), BEZ235 (Novartis), BIBF1120 (Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals), BIBW 2992 (Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals) , BMS-275291 (Bristol-Myers Squibb), BMS-582664 (Brivanib) (Bristol-Myers Squibb), BMS-690514 (Bristol-Myers Squibb), Calcitriol, CCI-779 (Torisel) (Wyeth), CDP-791 (ImClone Systems), Ceflatonin (Homohalintonin / HHT) (ChemGenex Therapeutics), Celebrex (Celecoxib) (Pfizer), CEP-7055 (Cephalon / Sanofi), CHIR-265 (Chiron Corporation), NGR-TNF, COL-3 (Metastat) ) (Collagenex Pharmaceuticals), Combretastatin (Oxigene), CP-751, 87l (Figitumumab) (Pfizer), CP-547,632 (Pfizer), CS-7017 (Daiichi Sankyo Pharma), CT-322 (Angiocept) (Adnexus) , curcumin, dalteparin (Fragmin) (Pfizer), disulfiram (Antabuse), E7820 (Eisai Limited), E7080 (Eisai Limited), EMD121974 (cilengitide) (EMD Pharmaceuticals), ENMD-1198 (EntreMed), ENMD-2076 (EntreMed) , Endostar (Simcere), Erbitux (ImClone / Bristol-Myers Squibb), EZN-2208 (Enzon Pharmaceuticals), EZN-2968 (Enzon Pharmaceuticals), GC1008 (Genzyme), Genistein, GSK1363089 (Foretinib) (GlaxoSmithKline), GW786034 (Pazopanib) ) (GlaxoSmithKline), GT-111 (Vascular Biogenics Ltd.), IMC-1121B (ramucirumab) (ImClone Systems), IMC-18F1 (ImClone Systems), IMC-3G3 (ImClone LLC), INCB007839 (Incyte Corporation), INGN241 ( Introgen Therapeutics), Iressa (ZD1839 / gefitinib), LBH589 (Faridak / panobinostat) (Novartis), Lucentis (ranibizumab) (Genentech / Novartis), LY3 17615 (enzastaurin) (Eli Lilly and Company), Macugen (pegaptanib) ( Pfizer), MED1522 (Abegrin) (Medlmmune), MLN518 (Tandutinib) (Millennium), Neovastat (AE941 / Benefin) (Aeterna Zentaris), Nexavar (Bayer / Onyx), NM-3 (Genzyme Corporation), Noscapine (Cougar Biotechnology) , NPT2358 (Nereus Pharmaceuticals), OSI-930 (OSI), Palomid529 (Paloma Pharmaceuticals, Inc.), Panzem Capsules (2ME2) ​​(EntreMed), Panzem NCD (2ME2) ​​(EntreMed), PF-02341066 (Pfizer), PF- 04554878 (Pfizer), PI-88 (Progen Industries / Medigen Biotechnology), PKC412 (Novartis), Polyphenon E (green tea extract) (Polypheno E International, Inc), PPI-2458 (Praecis Pharmaceuticals), PTC299 (PTC Therapeutics), PTK787 (Vatalanib) (Novartis), PXD101 (belinostat) (CuraGen Corporation), RAD001 (everolimus) (Novartis), RAF265 (Novartis), regorafenib (BAY73-4506) (Bayer), Revlimid (Celgene), Retaane (Alcon Research) , SN38 (liposome) (Neopharm), SNS-032 (BMS-387032) (Sunesis), SOM230 (pasireotide) (Novartis), squalamine (Genaera), suramin, Sutent (Pfizer), Tarceva (Genentech), TB-403 ( VEGF Trap (Aflibercept) (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals), VEGF Trap-Eye (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals), Veglin (VasGene Therapeutics), Bortezomib (Millennium), XL184 (Exelixis), XL647 (Exelixis), XL784 (Exelixis), XL820 (Exelixis), Examples include, but are not limited to, XL999 (Exelixis), ZD6474 (AstraZeneca), vorinostat (Merck), and ZSTK474.

[0420] Exemplary vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor inhibitors include bevacizumab (Avastin®), axitinib (Inlyta®), brivanib alaninate (BMS-582664, (S)-(( R)-1-(4-(4-fluoro-2-methyl-17 / -indol-5-yloxy)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- / ][1,2,4]triazin-6-yloxy) Propan-2-yl) 2-aminopropanoate), Sorafenib (Nexavar®), Pazopanib (Votrient®), Sunitinib Malate (Sutent®), Cediranib (AZD2171, CAS 288383 -20-1), Vargatef (BIBF1120, CAS 928326-83-4), Foretinib (GSK1363089), Teratinib (BAY57-9352, CAS 332012-40-5), Apatinib (YN968D1, CAS 811803-05-1), Imatinib (Gleevec®), ponatinib (AP24534, CAS 943319-70-8), tivozanib (AV951, CAS 475108-18-0), regorafenib (BAY73-4506, CAS 755037-03-7), vatalanib dihydrochloride (PTK787, CAS 212141-51-0), brivanib (BMS-540215, CAS 649735-46-6), vandetanib (Caprelsa® or AZD6474), motesanib diphosphate (AMG706, CAS 857876-30-3) , N-(2,3-dihydro-3,3-dimethyl-1H-indol-6-yl)-2-[(4-pyridinylmethyl)amino]-3-pyridinecarboxamide, described in PCT Publication No. WO02 / 066470 ), dovitinib dilactate (TKI258, CAS 852433-84-2), rinfanib (ABT869, CAS 796967-16-3), cabozantinib (XL184, CAS 849217-68-1), lestaurtinib (CAS 111358-88-4), N-[5-[[[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-oxazolyl]methyl]thio]-2-thiazolyl]-4-piperidinecarboxamide (BMS38703, CAS 345627-80-7), (3R ,4R)-4-amino-1-((4-((3-methoxyphenyl)amino)pyrrolo[2,1-f][1,2,4]triazin-5-yl)methyl)piperidine-3- All (BMS6905 14), N-(3,4-dichloro-2-fluorophenyl)-6-methoxy-7-[[(3aa,5P,6aa)-octahydro-2-methylcyclopenta[c]pyrrole-5 -yl]methoxy]-4-quinazolineamine (XL647, CAS 781613-23-8), 4-methyl-3-[[1-methyl-6-(3-pyridinyl)-1 / / -pyrazolo[3,4 -i / ]pyrimidin-4-yl]amino]-N-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-benzamide (BHG712, CAS 940310-85-0), and aflibercept (Eylea®) These include, but are not limited to: Exemplary EGF pathway inhibitors include tyrphostin 46, EKB-569, erlotinib (Tarceva®), gefitinib (Iressa®), erbitux, nimotuzumab, lapatinib (Tykerb®), cetuximab ( anti-EGFR mAb), 188Re-labeled nimotuzumab (anti-EGFR mAb), and WO97 / 02266, EP0564409, WO99 / 03854, EP0520722, EP0566226, EP0787722, EP0837063, US5,747,498, WO98 / 10767, WO97 / 30034, WO 97 / 49688, WO97 Examples include, but are not limited to, compounds such as those disclosed generically and specifically in WO96 / 33983 and WO96 / 33980.

[0421] Exemplary EGFR antibodies include cetuximab (Erbitux®), panitumumab (Vectibix®), matuzumab (EMD-72000), trastuzumab (Herceptin®), nimotuzumab (hR3), zaltumumab, TheraCIM Examples include, but are not limited to, h-R3, MDX0447 (CAS 339151-96-1), and ch806 (mAb-806, CAS 946414-09-1). Exemplary epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors include erlotinib hydrochloride (Tarceva®), gefitinib (Iressa®), N-[4-[(3-chloro-4-fluoro phenyl)amino]-7-[[(3''S'')-tetrahydro-3-furanyl]oxy]-6-quinazolinyl]-4(dimethylamino)-2-butenamide, Tovok®), vandetanib (Caprelsa®), lapatinib (Tykerb®), (3R,4R)-4-amino-1-((4-((3-methoxyphenyl)amino)pyrrolo[2,1-f] [1,2,4]triazin-5-yl)methyl)piperidin-3-ol (BMS690514), canertinib dihydrochloride (CI-1033), 6-[4-[(4-ethyl-1piperazinyl)methyl] Phenyl]-N-[(1R)-1-phenylethyl]-7 / -pyrrolo[23-7]pyri in idin-4-ain inc (AEE788, CAS 497839-62-0) , mubritinib (TAK165), peritinib (EKB569), afatinib (BIBW2992), neratinib (HKI-272), A-[4-[[1-[(3-fluorophenyl)methyl]-1 / / -indazole-5- yl]amino]-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- / ][1,2,4]triazin-6-yl]-carbamic acid, 3)-3-in orpholinyliny1in cthy1 ester ( BMS599626), N-(3,4-dichloro-2-fluorophenyl)-6-methoxy-7-[[(3aa,5p,6aa)-octahydro-2-methylcyclopenta[c]pyrrol-5-yl] methoxy]-4-quinazolineamine (XL647, CAS 781613-23-8), and 4-[4-[[(1R)-1-phenylethyl]amino]-7A / -pyrrolo[2,3-z / J Examples include, but are not limited to, pyrimidin-6-yl J-phenol (PKI166, CAS 187724-61-4).

[0422] Exemplary mTOR inhibitors include rapamycin (Rapamune®) and its analogs and derivatives, SDZ-RAD, temsirolimus (Torisel®, also known as CCI-779), ridaforolimus ( (1R,2R,4S)-4-[(2R)-2[(1R,9S,125,15R,16E,1SR,19R,21R,23S,24￡, 26￡,28Z),30S,32S,35R)-1,18-dihydroxy-19,30-dimethoxy-15,17,21,23,29,35-hexamethyl-2,3,10,14,20-pentaoxo -11,36-Dioxa-4-azatricyclo[30.3.1.04,9]hexatriaconta-16,24,26,28-tetraen-12-yl]propyl]-2-methoxycyclohexyldimethylphosphinate, as AP23573 and MK8669 also known and described in PCT Publication No. WO03 / 064383), everolimus (Afinitor® or RAD001), rapamycin (AY22989, Sirolimus®), Simapimod (CAS 164301-51-3) , (5-{2,4-bis[(3S)-3-methylmorpholin-4-yl]pyrido[2,3-i / ]pyrimidin-7-yl]-2-methoxyphenyl)methanol (AZD8055), 2-Amino-8-[trans-A-(2-hydroxyethoxy)cyclohexyl]-6-(6-methoxy-3-pyridinyl)-4-methyl-pyrido[2,3-i / ]pyrimidine-7(8 )-one (PF04691502, CAS 1013101-36-4), as well as 2-[1,4-dioxo-4-[[4-(4-oxo-8-phenyl-4 / / -1-benzopyran-2-yl) )morpholinium-4-yl]methoxy]butyl]-L-arginylglycyl-L-a-aspartyl-serine (SEQ ID NO: 73), inner salt (SF1126, CAS 936487-67-1), but these but not limited to.

[0423] Exemplary immunomodulators include, for example, aftuzumab (available from Roche®), pegfilgrastim (Neulasta®), lenalidomide (CC-5013, Revlimid®), thalidomide ( Thalomid®), actimid (CC4047), and IRX-2 (a mixture of human cytokines including interleukin 1, interleukin 2, and interferon g, CAS 951209-71-5, available from IRX Therapeutics). It will be done. Exemplary anthracyclines include, for example, doxorubicin (Adriamycin® and Rubex®), bleomycin (lenoxane®), daunorubicin (dauombicin hydrochloride, daunomycin, and rubidomycin hydrochloride, Cembidine®), daunorubicin liposomes (daunorubicin citrate liposomes, DaunoXome®), mitoxantrone (DHAD, Novantrone®), epirubicin (Ellence®), idambicin (Idamycin ®, Idamycin PFS®), mitomycin C (Mutamycin®), geldanamycin, herbimycin, ravidomycin, and desacetylravidomycin. Exemplary vinca alkaloids include, for example, vinorelbine tartrate (Navelbine®), vincristine (Oncovin®), and vindesine (Eldisine®), vinblastine (vinblastine sulfate, vincaleukoblastine and VLB, also known as Alkaban-AQ® and Velban®), and vinorelbine (Navelbine®). Exemplary proteosome inhibitors include bortezomib (Velcade®), carfilzomib (PX-171-007, (S)-4-methyl-A / -((S)-1-(((S)- 4-Methyl-1-((R)-2-methyloxiran-2-yl)-1-oxopentan-2-yl)amino)-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl)-2-( (S)-2-(2-morpholinoacetamide)-4-phenylbutanamide)-pentanamide), marizomib (NPI-0052), ixazomib citrate (MLN-9708), delanzomib (CEP-18770), and C-methyl-V-(2-methyl-5-thiazolyl)carbonyl J-L-scryl-C-methyl-V-(5)-2-[(2 / ^)-2-methyl-2-oxiranyl ]-2-oxo-1-(phenylmethyl)ethyl]-L-serinamide (ONX-0912).

[0424] Exemplary phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors include 4-[2-(1H-indazol-4-yl)-6-[[4-(methylsulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl]methyl]thieno[ 3,2-d]pyrimidin-4-yl]morpholine (also known as GDC0941 and described in PCT Publication Nos. WO09 / 036082 and WO09 / 055730), 2-methyl-2-[4-[ 3-Methyl-2-oxo-8-(quinolin-3-yl)-2,3-dihydroimidazo[4,5-c]quinolin-1-yl]phenyl]propionitrile (also as BEZ235 or NVP-BEZ235) known and described in PCT Publication No. WO06 / 122806), 4-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(2,6-dimorpholinopyrimidin-4-yl)pyridin-2-amine (BKM120 or NVP-BKM120) (also known as PCT Publication No. WO2007 / 084786), tozasertib (VX680 or MK-0457, CAS 639089-54-6), (5Z)-5-[[4-(4-pyridinyl)- 6-quinolinyl]methylene]-2,4-thiazolidinedione (GSK1059615, CAS 958852-01-2), (1E,4S,4aR,5R,6aS,9aR)-5-(acetyloxy)-1-[(di -2-propenylamino)methylene]-4,4a,5,6,6a,8,9,9a-octahydro-11-hydroxy-4-(methoxymethyl)-4a,6a-dimethylcyclopenta[5,6] naphtho[1,2-c]pyran-2,7,10(1H)-trione (PX866, CAS 502632-66-8), and 8-phenyl-2-(morpholin-4-yl)-chromene-4- (LY294002, CAS 154447-36-6).

[0425] Exemplary protein kinase B (PKB) or AKT inhibitors include 8-[4-(1-aminocyclobutyl)phenyl]-9-phenyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-f][ 1,6]Naphthyridin-3(2H)-one (MK-2206, CAS 1032349-93-1), Perifosine (KRX0401), 4-Dodecyl-N-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylbenzenesulfonamide (PHT-427, CAS 1191951-57-1), 4-[2-(4-amino-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-rethyl-7-[(3S)-3-py Peridinylmethoxy]-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridin-4-yl]-2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol (GSK690693, CAS 937174-76-0), 8-(1-hydroxy Ethyl)-2-methoxy-3-[(4-methoxyphenyl)methoxy]-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran-6-one (palomid529, P529, or SG-00529), Tricirbine (6- Amino-4-methyl-8-(P-D-ribofuranosyl)-4H,8H-pyrrolo[4,3,2-de]pyrimido[4,5-c]pyridazine), (aS)-a-[[[5- (3-Methyl-1H-indazol-5-yl)-3-pyridinyl]oxy]methyl]-benzenethanamine (A674563, CAS 552325-73-2), 4-[(4-chlorophenyl)methyl]-1- (7H pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)-4-piperidinamine (CCT128930, CAS 885499-61-6), 4-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-[4-(1H pyrazole-4 -yl)phenyl]-piperidine (AT7867, CAS 857531-00-1), and Archexin (RX-0201, CAS 663232-27-7).

[0426] Drugs that either inhibit the calcium-dependent phosphatase calcineurin (cyclosporine and FK506) or inhibit the p70S6 kinase important for growth factor-induced signaling (rapamycin) (Liu et al., Cell 66:807 -815, 1991, Henderson et al., Immun. 73:316-321, 1991, Bierer et al., Curr. Opin. Immun. 5:763-773, 1993) may also be used. In further embodiments, the cell compositions of the invention are suitable for treatment with bone marrow transplantation, T cell ablation therapy using chemotherapeutic agents such as fludarabine, external radiation therapy (XRT), cyclophosphamide, and / or such as OKT3 or CAMPATH. It may be administered to a patient in combination with (eg, before, simultaneously with, or after) an antibody. In one aspect...

Claims

1. An anti-guanylate cyclase C (GCC) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising an extracellular antigen-binding domain that binds to guanylate cyclase C (GCC), a transmembrane domain, and at least one intracellular signaling domain, wherein the antigen-binding domain is a heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences: RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 15) and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18); a heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences: HYYWS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 8), RIYPSGSTSYNPSLKS (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 11), and DRSTGWSEWNSDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 16); a heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences: RYWMS (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 9), KIRHDGGEKYYVDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 12) and DYTRDV (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 17); a heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences: RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIKYDGSEKYYADSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 13), and DYNKDY (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 18); or A heavy chain variable region (VH) having the complementarity determining region (CDR) sequences of RYWMT (HCDR1) (SEQ ID NO: 10), KIRHDGGEKYYPDSVKG (HCDR2) (SEQ ID NO: 14) and DYNKDL (HCDR3) (SEQ ID NO: 19). The anti-GCC CAR comprising:

2. The antigen-binding domain comprises: An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 28; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (VH) comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:1 or SEQ ID NO:20; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 21; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:26; or An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:

27. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 1, comprising:

3. An anti-guanylate cyclase C (GCC) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) comprising an extracellular antigen-binding domain that binds to guanylate cyclase C (GCC), a transmembrane domain, and at least one intracellular signaling domain, wherein the antigen-binding domain is An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 28; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (VH) comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:1 or SEQ ID NO:20; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO: 21; An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:26; or An immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (VH) region comprising an amino acid sequence at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:

27. The anti-GCC CAR comprising:

4. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the antigen-binding domain comprises an anti-GCC antigen-binding domain of only an immunoglobulin variable heavy chain.

5. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the extracellular anti-GCC antigen binding domain is preceded by a leader peptide.

6. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 5, wherein the leader peptide comprises SEQ ID NO:6, SEQ ID NO:7, or SEQ ID NO:

42.

7. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a hinge domain.

8. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 7, wherein the hinge domain comprises the hinge domain of CD28.

9. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 8, wherein the CD28 hinge domain comprises SEQ ID NO:

29.

10. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the hinge domain is fused to the transmembrane domain.

11. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the transmembrane domain comprises a transmembrane domain of a protein selected from the alpha, beta or zeta chain of a T-cell receptor, CD8, CD28, CD3 epsilon, CD45, CD4, CD5, CD8, CD9, CD16, CD22, CD33, CD37, CD64, CD80, CD83, CD86, CD134, CD137, CD154, and TNFRSF19, and any combination thereof.

12. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 11, wherein the transmembrane domain comprises a CD28 transmembrane domain.

13. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 12, wherein the CD28 transmembrane domain comprises SEQ ID NO:

30.

14. The anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one intracellular signaling domain comprises a costimulatory domain and a primary signaling domain.

15. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 14, wherein the costimulatory domain comprises a functional signaling domain of OX40, CD70, CD27, CD28, CD5, ICAM-1, LFA-1 (CD11a / CD18), ICOS (CD278), DAP10, DAP12, and 4-1BB (CD137), or any combination thereof.

16. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 15, wherein the costimulatory domain comprises a functional signaling domain of CD28.

17. The anti-GCC antibody of claim 16, wherein the CD28 costimulatory domain comprises SEQ ID NO:

32. C.A.R.

18. The anti-GCC CAR of any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the primary signaling domain comprises a CD3 zeta signaling domain.

19. The anti-GCC CAR of claim 18, wherein the CD3 zeta signaling domain comprises SEQ ID NO:

33.

20. An anti-GCC CAR comprising a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 47-52.

21. An isolated polynucleotide encoding the anti-GCC CAR of any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. 22. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 21, further comprising a truncated sequence of epidermal growth factor receptor (tEGFR).

23. 23. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 22, wherein the tEGFR comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence that is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% identical to SEQ ID NO:

43.

24. 24. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 23, wherein the tEGFR comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding an amino acid sequence identical to SEQ ID NO:

43.

25. 25. The isolated polynucleotide of any one of claims 21 to 24, further comprising a Furin recognition site and a downstream 2A self-cleaving peptide sequence, which are designed for simultaneous bicistronic expression of the tag sequence and the CAR sequence.

26. 26. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 25, wherein the 2A self-cleaving peptide is selected from F2A, P2A, E2A and T2A.

27. 27. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 26, wherein the 2A self-cleaving peptide is P2A.

28. A vector comprising the isolated polynucleotide of any one of claims 21 to 27.

29. 29. The vector of claim 28, wherein the vector is an adenoviral vector, an adeno-associated viral vector, a DNA vector, a lentiviral vector, a plasmid, a retroviral vector, or an RNA vector.

30. A cell comprising the vector of claim 28 or 29.

31. 31. The cell of claim 30, wherein the cell is a T cell, an allogeneic T cell, an autologous T cell, or a tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL).

32. A cell population comprising an anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

33. A cell population comprising an isolated polynucleotide according to any one of claims 21 to 27.

34. A kit comprising the cell population of claim 32 or 33.

35. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a cell according to claim 30 or a cell population according to any one of claims 31 to 33.

36. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the cell population described in claim 31.

37. 36. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 35, wherein greater than 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of the cells in the population express the anti-GCC CAR.

38. A therapeutic agent for cancer, comprising the anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

39. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the cancer is selected from gastrointestinal cancer, colorectal cancer, colorectal adenocarcinoma, colorectal leiomyosarcoma, colorectal lymphoma, colorectal melanoma, colorectal neuroendocrine tumor, metastatic colon cancer, gastric cancer, gastric adenocarcinoma, gastric lymphoma, gastric sarcoma, esophageal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, or pancreatic cancer.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the cancer is a gastrointestinal cancer.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the gastrointestinal cancer is colon cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, or esophageal cancer.

42. An agent for reducing tumor growth or size, comprising the anti-GCC CAR according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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