Monoclonal antibody–drug conjugates

Abstract

This review covers cytotoxic antibody–drug conjugates for use in oncology. The focus is on drug conjugates of current interest, such as those of the taxanes, maytansines, CC-1065 and the duocarmycins, the calicheamicins and other enediynes, and the auristatins. A few classes of drug conjugates from earlier work are also mentioned, such as those of the antifolates, vinca alkaloids, and the anthracyclines. Also covered are some more recent linker systems that are useful for making antibody–drug conjugates. This review does not cover conjugates of plant toxins, other bioactive proteins, enzymes (i.e., antibody-directed enzyme prodrug therapy [ADEPT]), radioisotopes (photodynamic therapy), or conjugates made with secondary carriers for the cytotoxic agent, such as liposomes or polymers.

Keywords::

• antibody
• anthracycline
• antifolate
• auristatin
• calicheamicin
• CC-1065
• chemoimmunoconjugate
• conjugate
• duocarmycin
• maytansine
• oncology
• taxane
• trichothecene
• vinca alkaloid