CanAg x Tubulin

To assess the response rate of huC242-DM4 given as an intravenous infusion to patients with metastatic or locally advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

RATIONALE: Monoclonal antibodies, such as maytansinoid DM4-conjugated humanized monoclonal antibody huC242, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them.
PURPOSE: This phase I trial is studying the side effects and best dose of maytansinoid DM4-conjugated humanized monoclonal antibody huC242 in treating patients with solid tumors that cannot be removed by surgery or have spread to other parts of the body.