Antibody drug conjugates in gynaecological cancers: navigating between opportunities and challenges

Esteban Ciliberti1, Marta Nerone1, Vincenza Ricco1,2

  • 1Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), EOC, Bellinzona, Switzerland.

Eclinicalmedicine
|July 31, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) show promise for gynecological cancers. Ongoing trials and available treatments like Mirvetuximab soravtansine offer new hope for improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Gynecologic Oncology

Background:

  • Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent a novel therapeutic strategy for gynecological cancers.
  • ADCs combine targeted antibody delivery with potent cytotoxic chemotherapy agents.
  • Several tumor-associated antigens are targeted by ADCs in gynecological malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review clinical studies of ADCs in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers.
  • To explore the efficacy and challenges of ADC utilization in gynecological malignancies.
  • To summarize currently available and investigational ADCs for gynecological cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of major clinical studies involving ADCs in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer.
  • Analysis of data from ongoing phase III trials and early-phase investigations.
  • Examination of challenges associated with clinical implementation of ADCs.

Main Results:

  • Three ADCs are approved for gynecological cancers: Mirvetuximab soravtansine (FRα+ ovarian), Tisotumab vedotin (TF+ cervical), and Trastuzumab deruxtecan (HER2+ solid tumors).
  • Numerous ADCs targeting antigens like FRα, HER2, TROP2, and TF are in various clinical investigation stages.
  • Promising early efficacy signals are observed for ADCs as monotherapy and combination treatments.

Conclusions:

  • ADCs are a rapidly advancing therapeutic frontier in gynecological oncology.
  • Positive phase III trial outcomes are anticipated to significantly alter the standard of care.
  • Addressing clinical challenges is crucial for maximizing the benefit of ADCs for patients.

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