Conatumumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets the TRAIL receptor 2 (TRAILR2), also known as death receptor 5 (DR5). It is designed to induce apoptosis in cancer cells by activating the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. This antibody has been investigated primarily in oncology for its potential to selectively trigger programmed cell death in tumor cells while sparing normal cells.

It has been evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of various solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Conatumumab is often studied in combination with chemotherapy or other targeted agents to enhance antitumor activity. Its mechanism allows for synergistic effects when used with agents that upregulate death receptors or inhibit anti-apoptotic proteins.

Due to its targeted action, conatumumab represents a promising approach in cancer therapy, particularly in tumors that express high levels of TRAILR2. However, clinical development has faced challenges related to variable response rates and the development of resistance mechanisms in some cancers.