Development and application of antibody-drug conjugates in gynecological cancers

Ruxi Zheng1,2, Jiaojiao Zhang1,2, Jianwei Zhou1,2

  • 1Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052, China.

PubMed

Insights

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent a significant advancement in treating gynecological cancers. This review details their structure, action, and clinical potential, addressing current challenges in women's cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Gynecological cancers remain a significant health concern for women worldwide.
  • Current treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapies face challenges such as limited efficacy, resistance, and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in gynecological cancer treatment.
  • To discuss the structural features, mechanisms of action, molecular characteristics, clinical applications, and challenges of approved and developing ADCs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of approved and investigational antibody-drug conjugates for gynecological cancers.
  • Analysis of structural components, pharmacodynamics, and clinical trial data.
  • Synthesis of information on efficacy, resistance mechanisms, and adverse events.

Main Results:

  • Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have emerged as a key therapeutic strategy, with several agents approved and more in development.
  • ADCs demonstrate specific targeting capabilities, enhancing drug delivery to cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity.
  • Challenges include optimizing target selection, managing resistance, and mitigating side effects.

Conclusions:

  • ADCs offer promising therapeutic prospects for improving outcomes in gynecological cancer patients.
  • Further research is needed to overcome existing challenges and fully realize the potential of ADCs in this field.
  • The review highlights the evolving landscape and future directions for ADC development in gynecological oncology.

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