Previously, Chinese researchers used long-read RNA sequencing to identify a unique alternative splicing variant of CD44 transmembrane protein, named CD44E, which is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumors compared to adjacent nontumoral liver tissues. In a new study, the team analyzed the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database and confirmed that CD44E expression is limited in essential normal organs, while CD44S standard isoform is broadly expressed on most cell types.
Multispecifics took center stage at this year’s ESMO TAT, emerging as one of the hottest trends in oncology research. Unlike traditional small-molecule drugs or monoclonal antibodies that typically target a single protein, multispecific compounds are engineered to harness multiple mechanisms of action within a single molecule. They orchestrate biology rather than just blocking it.
The Scripps Research Institute has discovered new bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane-based DNA topoisomerase inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates comprising a monoclonal antibody covalently linked to a DNA topoisomerase inhibitor. They are described as potentially useful for the treatment of cancer.
Bolt Biotherapeutics Inc. has prepared and tested new immunoconjugates comprising antibodies covalently linked to stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING; TMEM173) agonists. They are designed for potential use in the treatment of cancer.
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer, arising from abnormal proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes due to chronic UV exposure. While highly curable (>90%) with surgical excision when detected early, it carries a significant risk of local invasion and metastasis if left untreated.
Overt Bio Inc. is advancing lead asset OVT-101 toward the clinic. The allogeneic, potential first-in-class, off-the-shelf γδ CAR T therapy targets claudin-6, which is present in the majority of ovarian cancers and several other solid tumors.
Glyconex Inc. has entered into a collaboration agreement with Nippon Kayaku Co. Ltd. to advance GNX201-ADC, a next-generation glycan-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) candidate for the treatment of solid tumors.
Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co. Ltd. has announced IND approval by China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for SKB-103 for the treatment of advanced solid tumors.
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare, often aggressive, neuroendocrine thyroid tumor with limited targeted treatment options, arising from calcitonin-producing C cells and sometimes associated with RET mutations. Researchers from the Mayo Clinic reported the potential of targeting DLL3 as a therapeutic strategy in MTC.
At the ESMO Targeted Anticancer Therapies Congress held this week in Paris, researchers at Mabqi SAS presented the preclinical characterization of MQI-201, an anti-TRPV6 therapeutic antibody in models of metastatic prostate cancer.