Cross-Linkers (577)

Crosslinkers primarily serve to link antibodies with toxins, playing a crucial role in the construction of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The linker that attaches cytotoxic drugs to monoclonal antibodies is a central component of ADCs. Selecting an appropriate crosslinker is one of the major challenges in developing effective ADCs. The crosslinker must ensure the cytotoxic drug is released in its active form within or near the target cell. It is fundamental to the efficient delivery of cytotoxic drugs by ADCs and significantly influences the toxicity of the final product. Premature drug release in the bloodstream can result in systemic toxicity and a reduced therapeutic index. The selection of a linker typically depends on factors such as the target, the drug, the internalization and degradation process of the antibody-antigen complex, and the characteristics of the drug being used.