Current antibody-drug conjugates often struggle with poor tumor selectivity and limited efficacy, particularly in cancers like triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). These limitations arise from inefficient internalization and non-specific binding, leading to toxicity in healthy tissues.

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University developed a novel non-antibody protein-drug conjugate that selectively targets and internalizes into cancer cells overexpressing EGFR and HER2, sparing normal tissues. This distinct targeting mechanism offers a more precise and safer therapeutic strategy.

The technology

The Technology

The lead molecule, a conjugate of a non-enzymatic EGFR/HER2-binding protein and the cytotoxin MMAE, exhibits robust antitumor activity in preclinical models of HER2-positive breast cancer and TNBC, with minimal observed toxicity. This approach offers a promising alternative to traditional ADCs and holds potential for broader application across multiple EGFR- and HER2-driven cancers.