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Recent Advances in the Linkers of Drug Conjugates
Shirui Deng1, Xiaoan Wen1, Jinzheng Wang2
1State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
Abstract:
Drug conjugates have emerged as a pivotal research focus in the field of targeted cancer therapy. They represent a widely explored prodrug strategy that significantly enhances the therapeutic index of drugs while minimizing side effects. The stability and selective cleavage of the linker within drug conjugates are critical for the therapeutic efficacy and targeted treatment achieved by these conjugates. In this review, we have categorized the linkers based on their cleavage mode and summarized the chemical properties, advantages, and limitations of various types of cleavable linkers. Particularly, examples have been provided to illustrate their specific potential for development.
Insights
Drug conjugates enhance cancer therapy by improving drug efficacy and reducing side effects. Linker stability and cleavage are key to their targeted action and therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Drug conjugates are crucial in targeted cancer therapy.
- They act as prodrugs, improving the therapeutic index and minimizing side effects.
- Linker stability and selective cleavage are vital for efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and categorize drug conjugate linkers based on cleavage mechanisms.
- To summarize the chemical properties, benefits, and drawbacks of various cleavable linkers.
- To highlight specific linker types with development potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and categorization of cleavable linkers.
- Analysis of chemical properties, advantages, and limitations.
- Case studies illustrating linker applications.
Main Results:
- Classification of linkers by cleavage mode.
- Detailed summary of diverse cleavable linker characteristics.
- Identification of promising linkers for future drug conjugate development.
Conclusions:
- Cleavable linkers are essential components of effective drug conjugates.
- Understanding linker properties guides the design of targeted cancer therapeutics.
- This review provides a framework for selecting and developing optimal linkers.
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