Recent advances in antibody-drug conjugates

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) combine the target specificity of antibodies with the potency of small-molecule drugs. Over the last few years, advances in antibody engineering, site-selective bioconjugation, linker design, and payload development have driven significant clinical success, culminating in multiple FDA approvals. In this opinion piece, we highlight recent innovations that we believe will define the next generation of ADCs, with a particular focus on site-selective conjugation strategies, linker technologies that enable higher drug-to-antibody ratios (DARs), and emerging payload classes with novel mechanisms of action. We also discuss the expanding scope of ADCs beyond oncology and outline key challenges that must be addressed to fully realise their therapeutic potential.