Drug-Linker Conjugates for ADC
Drug-linker conjugates are crucial components of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a specialized form of cancer therapy that targets and kills tumor cells with high precision. These conjugates consist of a potent cytotoxic drug chemically bonded to a linker molecule. The linker's role is pivotal; it securely attaches the drug to an antibody specific to cancer cell antigens, ensuring stability during circulation in the bloodstream. Once the ADC binds to its target cancer cells, the linker is designed to release the drug inside the cell, triggering cell death. This controlled release mechanism is fundamental to maximizing the therapeutic efficacy of ADCs while minimizing side effects, thereby improving patient outcomes in cancer treatment.