A humanized anti-IL-6 antibody (ALD518) in non-small cell lung cancer

IL-6-mediated inflammation may contribute to NSCLC-related morbidity and mortality. In preclinical and Phase I and II trials ALD518 targeting IL-6 appears well tolerated and ameliorates NSCLC-related anemia and cachexia. Other clinical outcomes need further study, and may include effects on overall survival, hypercoagulability associated with lung cancer and decreased resistance to EGF-pathway inhibitors.