ABSTRACT

Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) consist of three carefully selected components. Firstly, a monoclonal antibody is chosen whose receptor antigen is found on cells with the target disease state, such as an individual cancer type. At the other end of the conjugate is the warhead, a chemical entity which has been shown to have potency against the target cells, for example a marine natural product. These two components are usually connected by a linker, which can offer the opportunity to modulate physicochemical properties, and can control spatial or temporal release of the warhead. Together, these components make ADCs a valuable alternative to traditional chemotherapy, as the cytotoxin is directed towards the tumour cells, leading to fewer off-site effects. This talk will highlight the development of novel linker technologies which will improve drug release within the tumour microenvironment whilst retaining stability of the conjugate elsewhere in the body.