Therapy combining tumor necrosis factor with tumor-specific antibody against Meth A sarcoma.

We have investigated the antitumor activity of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) against numerous. It appears that the efficacy of TNF against highly immunogenic tumor cell lines is greater than that against low immunogenic cell lines. Tumor cells express immunogenic tumor-associated antigen and sometimes shed antigens. Antibody against shedding antigens from Meth A sarcoma cells was prepared by immunizing rabbits seven times. This antibody by itself was not curative. However, in combination with TNF, the antibody was effective even against large and well-established tumors. When the antibody was injected 1 day after administration of TNF, the antitumor activity was stronger than in the case of simultaneous administration of TNF and antibody. We further examined the effect of this antibody against Ehrlich tumors in combination with TNF. The results were similar to those for Meth A sarcoma, although effects were weaker.