
Antibody-Drug Conjugates: Precision Delivery Systems in Cancer Treatment
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) harness the high specificity of monoclonal antibodies to deliver potent cytotoxic agents directly to cancer cells, thereby maximizing tumor cell killing while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. This targeted delivery is achieved through sophisticated molecular designs where antibodies are chemically linked to powerful drugs via specialized linkers. Recent innovations have focused on developing novel linkers that remain stable in the bloodstream but release their payloads selectively within the tumor microenvironment, triggered by factors such as pH, enzymes, or redox conditions. Additionally, next-generation payloads with unique mechanisms—such as DNA-damaging agents or microtubule inhibitors—have expanded the therapeutic arsenal to overcome diverse cancer types. To tackle tumor heterogeneity and resistance, dual-targeting ADCs capable of binding two distinct antigens simultaneously are being engineered, enhancing efficacy and reducing escape pathways. Clinical trials have demonstrated promising outcomes for ADCs in breast, lymphoma, and lung cancers, with several FDA-approved drugs already transforming standard-of-care. Ongoing research aims to improve safety by minimizing off-target toxicities, optimizing dosing strategies, and broadening ADC applications across solid tumors and hematological malignancies, highlighting their growing role in precision oncology.