Monoclonal antibodies to human high molecular weight-melanoma associated antigen

Abstract

The present invention provides monoclonal antibodies that react against high molecular weight melanoma-associated antigen. These antibodies may be used for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes.

1 . A monoclonal antibody which specifically binds to human high molecular weight melanoma associated antigen (HMW-MAA) bearing human melanoma cells but not to human B lymphoid cells, wherein the monoclonal antibody is designated as TP109.  
     
     
         2 . (canceled)  
     
     
         3 . A monoclonal antibody, which specifically binds to human high molecular weight melanoma associated antigen (HMW-MAA) bearing human melanoma cells but not to human B lymphoid cells, wherein the monoclonal antibody is designated as VF20-VT1.7.  
     
     
         4 . A pharmaceutical composition comprising the monoclonal antibody of  claim 1  or  3 .  
     
     
         5 . The pharmaceutical composition of  claim 4 , wherein the monoclonal antibody is TP109.  
     
     
         6 . The pharmaceutical composition of  claim 4 , wherein the monoclonal antibody is VF20-VT1.7.