Nurse practitioner Archana Ajmera has observed that patients receiving antibody-drug conjugates for cancer often face side effects such as interstitial lung disease, which can cause lung scarring and breathing difficulties, sometimes resulting in death, according to a June 23 article. Patients are typically treated with high-dose steroids and may have to discontinue treatment with the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), which is challenging for those benefiting from the drug.
Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca’s Enhertu was first approved in 2019 as a targeted cytotoxic drug for breast cancer, lung cancer, gastric cancer, and other solid tumors. The HER2-targeting ADC improved patient survival rates but became associated with side effects like interstitial lung disease. Both companies are now working on new candidates to improve upon this model.
Several biotechnology companies are also developing ADCs aimed at improving patient outcomes while reducing adverse effects. Zymeworks and Kivu Bioscience are among those seeking to provide survival benefits along with better experiences for patients. These developments will be discussed at the BIO International Convention in San Diego during a panel titled "The Next Generation of ADCs: Building Kinder, Gentler Cancer Therapeutics." Ajmera will join the panel to offer insights into patient experiences.
Merck scientist Michael Seganish will discuss advances in preclinical research on ADCs, including new payloads and mechanisms that could shape future therapies. Seganish's perspective is informed by Merck's work in immuno-oncology. The discussion will also feature Zymeworks Chief Medical Officer Sabeen Mekan and Kivu’s Mohit Trikha addressing clinical progress toward safer ADCs.
Jakob Dupont, executive partner at Sofinnova Investments and another panelist, said, “ADCs are one of the most complicated molecules we can build. If we don’t have to make an ADC, we won’t.” Dupont added that patient selection is important not only for efficacy but also for minimizing toxicity.
