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Quantifying Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity in a Tumor Spheroid Model: Application for Drug Discovery
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Published on: April 26, 2024

EGFR-targeting ADCs: From oncogene addiction to antigen-guided drug delivery

Lihui Liu1, Kailun Fei1, Jie Wang1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.

Cancer Cell
|August 13, 2026
PubMed

Insights

A phase 1 trial investigated SYS6010, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), in advanced solid tumors. This approach shifts EGFR therapy from kinase inhibition to targeted cytotoxic delivery, particularly for non-small cell lung cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key target in several cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • Current EGFR-directed therapies primarily involve kinase inhibitors, which can face resistance.
  • Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) offer a novel strategy for targeted drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and tolerability of SYS6010, an EGFR-targeting ADC, in a first-in-human phase 1 study.
  • To explore the preliminary efficacy of SYS6010 in patients with advanced solid tumors.
  • To assess the potential of antigen-guided cytotoxic delivery for EGFR-driven malignancies.

Main Methods:

  • Phase 1, first-in-human clinical trial design.
  • Dose escalation and expansion cohorts.
  • Evaluation of safety, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary antitumor activity.
  • Targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) using an antibody-drug conjugate (SYS6010).

Main Results:

  • SYS6010 demonstrated a manageable safety profile in patients with advanced solid tumors.
  • Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity was observed in specific patient populations.
  • The study established a recommended dose for further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • SYS6010 represents a novel therapeutic strategy for EGFR-expressing tumors.
  • Antigen-guided cytotoxic delivery via ADCs is a promising approach beyond traditional kinase inhibition.
  • Further clinical development of SYS6010 is warranted, especially in non-small cell lung cancer.

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