Tovetumab is a monoclonal antibody designed to target the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA), also known as CD140a. Its primary application lies in cancer therapy, particularly in tumors that exhibit overexpression or dysregulation of PDGFRA. By binding to PDGFRA, tovetumab blocks the activation of the receptor and its downstream signaling pathways, which are involved in cell proliferation, survival, and migration.

This antibody has been investigated in clinical development for the treatment of solid tumors, including certain types of gliomas, sarcomas, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), where PDGFRA signaling plays a key role in disease progression. It may also be used in combination with other targeted therapies or chemotherapeutic agents to enhance antitumor effects.

Additionally, tovetumab serves as a reference antibody in research and diagnostic settings, enabling the validation of PDGFRA detection methods and supporting the development of new anti-cancer agents. Its high specificity makes it valuable for immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and pharmacodynamic studies in preclinical and clinical trials.