Celltrion Pharm announced on May 2 that it participated in the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR 2025), held from May 25 to 30 in Chicago, where it presented research results on its ADC (Antibody-Drug Conjugate) platform technology for the first time. The AACR is recognized as the largest international conference in the field of oncology.
At the conference, the company showcased its novel 'CTPH-02' in poster format, featuring a dual payload design that combines existing payloads (cytotoxic anticancer agents) with a new payload exhibiting a different mechanism of action. Celltrion Pharm has developed and applied this new payload, designed to synergize with existing ones.
Typically, dual payloads are known to exert more potent cytotoxicity against cancer cells compared to single payloads. When combined with antibodies, the effectiveness at targeted sites is significantly enhanced.
In this instance, Celltrion Pharm combined the HER2 antibody trastuzumab with MMAE (monomethyl auristatin e, a microtubule inhibitor) and the new payload. This combination demonstrated strong cytotoxic effects not only in HER2-positive cell lines but also in those with lower expression levels, displaying significant synergy. Notably, the use of MMAE with a low drug-antibody ratio (DAR) still yielded efficacy comparable to or exceeding that of standard single payload ADCs with a high DAR.
Celltrion Pharm plans to continue developing CTPH-02 with objectives to increase maximum tolerated doses (MTD), decrease the minimum effective dose (MED), secure cytotoxicity in low antigen-expressing cell lines for broader patient applicability, and reduce drug resistance.
A representative from Celltrion Pharm stated, “Our presentation at AACR introduces a new paradigm in ADC design strategies by integrating proprietary payload technology with a combination of two distinct payloads. We are committed to expanding treatment options in the ADC field through our ongoing development efforts.”
