New payloads drive next-gen antibody–drug conjugates

A review published in Nature Cancer examines the emerging landscape of next-generation antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) payloads designed to overcome growing tumor resistance. As conventional ADC payloads face increasing efficacy challenges, researchers are exploring novel drug classes including immunotherapeutic agents, radioligands, and repurposed older compounds as alternative warheads. The article highlights how diversifying the cytotoxic payload beyond traditional chemotherapy agents could reinvigorate the ADC platform and expand its therapeutic reach. This shift in ADC design philosophy reflects a broader trend toward combination-style mechanisms delivered with antibody-guided precision.