Antibody-drug conjugates in hematologic malignancies.
Krish Patel1, Stephen A Strickland1, Hans C Lee1
1Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Cancer
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) offer targeted cancer therapy for hematologic malignancies. While effective, ADCs can cause unique toxicities, impacting their development and clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a key therapeutic strategy for hematologic cancers.
- Approved ADCs target acute leukemias, lymphoid malignancies, and multiple myeloma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical development of ADCs in hematologic malignancies.
- To discuss the current role and limitations of ADCs in treating these cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical trials and studies on ADCs.
- Analysis of ADC efficacy, toxicity, and target-specific effects.
Main Results:
- ADCs demonstrate selective delivery of cytotoxic agents via specific antigen targeting.
- Development of several ADCs for various hematologic malignancies has occurred.
- Unique toxicities associated with ADCs can limit their therapeutic application.
Conclusions:
- ADCs are an important treatment option for hematologic malignancies.
- Understanding ADC-related toxicities is crucial for optimizing their use.
- Further development is needed to overcome toxicity-related limitations.
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