An immunotoxin of a humanized monoclonal antibody C242 (MoAb HuC242) conjugated to a derivative of the cytotoxic agent maytansine, DM4, with potential antitumor activity. Cantuzumab ravtansine is generated from MoAb C242, which is raised against a cell surface superantigen, CA242, found in a variety of human tumor cells. Upon binding and entry, the immunoconjugate releases the maytansinoid agent DM4, which binds to tubulin, thereby affecting microtubule assembly/disassembly dynamics. As a result, this agent prevents cell division and reduces cell growth of cancer cells that express CA242.

(maytansinoid dm4-conjugated humanized monoclonal antibody huc242) A substance being studied in the treatment of some types of cancer. It is made by linking the monoclonal antibody huC242 to a toxic substance called maytansinoid DM4. The monoclonal antibody binds to the surfaces of cancer cells and the maytansinoid DM4 enters the cells and blocks their growth. It is a type of immunotoxin.