Antibody-drug conjugates in breast cancer

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have rapidly changed the breast cancer treatment landscape. The unique technology allows for targeted delivery of a cytotoxic payload to cancer cells expressing a specific antigen, thereby delivering high cytotoxic loads while decreasing off-target effects. Efforts to improve ADC technology through optimization of the antibody, cytotoxic payload, and chemical linkers are ongoing. Novel target antigens are also being explored. Clinically, given the success of ADCs in the treatment of metastatic disease, efforts are ongoing to move these therapies into the early-stage setting with the aim of improving outcomes and increasing the likelihood of cure.