What is it?
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a class of targeted cancer therapeutics that combine the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potency of cytotoxic (cell-killing) drugs. ADCs are designed to selectively deliver these cytotoxic agents to cancer cells while minimizing exposure and damage to healthy cells.
Why is it important?
ADCs leverage the ability of monoclonal antibodies to specifically recognize and bind to antigens expressed on the surface of cancer cells. This targeted approach allows for the delivery of the cytotoxic payload directly to the tumor site, potentially improving efficacy and reducing side effects compared to conventional chemotherapy. By selectively delivering the cytotoxic drug to cancer cells, ADCs can potentially increase the therapeutic index (the ratio of the maximum tolerated dose to the minimum effective dose) compared to traditional chemotherapeutic agents, which often lack specificity and can cause significant toxicity to healthy cells. ADCs offer a new approach to treating various types of cancers, including those that are resistant to conventional therapies or those with limited treatment options available. ADCs can be used in combination with other cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, potentially enhancing the overall treatment efficacy.
What industries will it impact?
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology, Oncology and cancer treatment, Antibody engineering and development, Drug delivery and targeting, Clinical research and trials.
Market players
Adcendo, AdcentrX Therapeutics, Araris Biotech, AstraZeneca/Daiichi Sankyo, BioNTech/DualityBio, Bristol Myers Squibb, GSK, MBrace therapeutics, Pfizer/Seagen Roche, Takeda Pharmaceuticals.