Antibody-drug conjugates and predictive biomarkers in advanced urothelial carcinoma
Sarah E Fenton1,2, David J VanderWeele1,2
1Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States.
Abstract:
The use of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) is expanding in several malignancies, including urothelial carcinoma where two of these medications have been approved for use and several others remain under study. ADCs act by binding to specific cell surface proteins, delivering anticancer agents directly to the target cells. Preclinical studies suggest that loss of these surface proteins alters sensitivity to therapy and expression of target proteins vary significantly based on the tumor subtype, prior therapies and other characteristics. However, use of biomarkers to predict treatment response have not been regularly included in clinical trials and clinician practice. In this review we summarize what is known about potential predictive biomarkers for ADCs in UC and discuss potential areas where use of biomarkers may improve patient care.
Insights
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) show promise for urothelial carcinoma. Biomarkers are crucial for predicting patient response to these targeted therapies, but are underutilized in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are increasingly used for urothelial carcinoma (UC).
- ADCs deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells by targeting specific surface proteins.
- Expression of these target proteins can vary, impacting treatment effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review potential predictive biomarkers for ADC therapy in UC.
- To discuss how biomarkers can enhance patient care in UC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Analysis of factors influencing ADC target protein expression.
- Discussion of biomarker integration in clinical trials and practice.
Main Results:
- Biomarker use is not consistently integrated into clinical trials or practice for ADCs in UC.
- Tumor subtype, prior treatments, and other factors influence target protein expression.
- Predictive biomarkers could optimize ADC therapy selection and efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Biomarkers are essential for personalizing ADC treatment in urothelial carcinoma.
- Further research and integration of biomarkers are needed to improve patient outcomes.
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