title: Antibody-drug conjugates--an emerging class of cancer treatment.
abstract: Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are an emerging novel class of anticancer treatment agents that combines the selectivity of targeted treatment with the cytotoxic potency of chemotherapy drugs. New linker technology associated with novel highly potent cytotoxic payloads has permitted the development of more effective and safe ADCs. In recent years, two ADCs have been licensed, T-DM1 and brentuximab vedotin, and are already establishing their place in cancer treatment. A plethora of ADCs are being investigated in phases I and II trials, emerging data of which appears promising. As we deepen our understanding of what makes a successful ADC, an increasing number of ADCs will likely become viable treatment options as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy. This review will present the philosophy underlying ADCs, their main characteristics and current research developments with a focus on ADCs in solid tumours.
authors.affiliation: Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden, Downs Road, Sutton, London SM2 5PT, UK.
authors.forename: Nikolaos
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Diamantis
authors.affiliation: Drug Development Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden, Downs Road, Sutton, London SM2 5PT, UK.
authors.forename: Udai
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Banerji
mesh_terms: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D018796:Immunoconjugates / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D018796:Immunoconjugates