Tag: PROTAC

Degrader–antibody conjugates (DACs), including PROTAC- and molecular glue–based platforms, represent a paradigm shift beyond traditional cytotoxic antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in oncology. By leveraging antibody-mediated targeting with selective protein degradation, DACs promise both efficacy and specificity. However, these innovative modalities introduce a distinct and complex safety profile that requires careful consideration.

Traditional antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have delivered cytotoxic payloads—often tubulin or topoisomerase inhibitors—directly to antigen-positive tumor cells, providing targeted cell killing while limiting off-target effects. However, the emergence of degrader–antibody conjugates (DACs), particularly those based on proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues, has introduced a new therapeutic strategy: harnessing targeted protein degradation rather than inhibition.

In a major stride toward tackling aggressive breast cancer, researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed druglike molecules that degrade a previously “undruggable” cancer-driving protein.