Ligand Pharmaceuticals has entered into U.S. Phase 1 clinical trials for a new antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) candidate being jointly developed with its U.S. partner.
Ligand Pharmaceuticals noted on Nov. 11 that the ADC candidate LNCB74, jointly developed with U.S. drug developer NextCure, has received Investigational New Drug (IND) approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
LNCB74 is an innovative first-in-class candidate that targets a specific protein, B7H4, found only in cancer cells. An ADC is a technology that attaches a drug to an antibody that binds to targets like cancer cells, allowing for precise drug delivery. Developing anti-cancer agents using this technology can accurately attack only cancer cells, much like a guided missile. It has the advantage of enhancing anti-tumor effects while reducing damage to normal tissues.
This clinical trial is set to be led by NextCure and will involve various solid tumor patients. The first patient administration is expected to take place in early next year.