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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Orthotopic Transplantation of Syngeneic Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells to Study PD-L1 Expression
Published on: January 19, 2019
Targeting the seeds of small cell lung cancer
Sylvia Mahara1, Ron Firestein2
1Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
Abstract:
The concept of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), which includes the delivery of cytotoxic drugs to antigen-expressing tumor cells by harnessing the antigen-selectivity of a monoclonal antibody, has the potential to redefine the landscape of translational medicine. With the advent of patient derived xenograft (PDX) models and sophisticated genomic technologies, the identification of a selective antigen can be accurately validated within the appropriate tumor milieu. However, a major biological hurdle in cancer translational medicine is the inherent tumoral heterogeneity, underscoring the importance of targeting the 'right' sub-population of cancer cells. Herein, we review a seminal work highlighting the ability to target a key 'stem-like' cancer sub-population called tumor initiating cells (TICs) using engineered ADCs. While the promise of this approach needs to be validated in the clinical setting, TIC-targeted ADCs offer great hope for circumventing current limitations with conventional ADC therapy.
Insights
Engineered antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) show promise for targeting tumor-initiating cells (TICs), a key cancer sub-population. This approach may overcome limitations of conventional ADC therapy by addressing tumor heterogeneity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Medicine
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) deliver cytotoxic drugs to tumor cells via monoclonal antibodies.
- Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and genomic technologies aid in identifying tumor-specific antigens.
- Tumor heterogeneity presents a significant challenge in cancer therapy.
Discussion:
- This review highlights engineered ADCs targeting tumor-initiating cells (TICs), a cancer stem-like sub-population.
- Targeting TICs offers a strategy to overcome limitations of conventional ADC therapy.
- Engineered ADCs demonstrate potential for more precise cancer treatment.
Key Insights:
- Engineered ADCs can specifically target tumor-initiating cells (TICs).
- Addressing tumor heterogeneity is crucial for effective cancer treatment.
- TIC-targeted ADCs represent a promising advancement in cancer therapy.
Outlook:
- Further clinical validation is required for TIC-targeted ADCs.
- This approach holds potential for improved outcomes in cancer patients.
- Engineered ADCs may redefine the landscape of translational cancer medicine.
