Antibody drug conjugates in breast cancer in China: Highlights, challenges, and prospects

Cancer. 2024 Apr 15;130(S8):1371-1377. doi: 10.1002/cncr.35093. Epub 2023 Nov 3.

Abstract

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) are novel drugs that exert specific cytotoxicity against tumor cells. China approved T-Dxd in May 2023, and their introduction has changed the nation's clinical practice. Although more than 700 ADCs are being investigated worldwide, the challenges that remain in antibody engineering, drug discovery, safety management, resistance, drug selection, and sequencing hinder the further promotion and application of ADCs. Experts in China have discussed the several critical concerns related to clinical practice since 2022. Here, the authors conducted a review of ADCs and then discussed several ADCs explored in China. This study proposes several solutions and strategies to maximize the potential benefit that ADCs can provide to patients with breast cancer.

Keywords: China; antibody‐drug conjugate; breast neoplasms; disease management; risk‐taking.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • China / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoconjugates* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Immunoconjugates
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal