ABSTRACT
In recent years, significant advancements in molecular biology have paved the way for novel targeted therapeutic strategies for gastric cancer treatment. Claudin18, which is an important structural protein involved in tight junctions between cells, and its subtype Claudin18.2 (CLDN18.2), which is specifically expressed in differentiated gastric epithelial cells, have emerged as novel therapeutic targets for patients with gastric cancer. This article aims to systematically review the latest developments in CLDN18.2 research in the fields of basic and clinical gastric cancer studies to provide a reference for clinical practice.
ABSTRACT
With the development of molecular biology research, targeted therapy has become the fourth effective method for the treatment of malignant tumors after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Unlike the traditional chemotherapeutic drugs, molecular targeted drugs possess the advantages of high specificity, definite curative effects, and less adverse effects. CLDN18.2 protein is a transmembrane protein that is highly selective and stably overexpressed during the development of various malignant tumors, especially gastrointestinal tumors, and metastases. A specific antibody against this protein, claudiximab (zolbetuximab/IMAB362), has achieved great success in recent clinical trials. Thus, CLDN18.2 protein is expected to be a safe and effective molecular target for targeted therapy in some malignancies.