Akeso Announces First ADC Drug Clinical Trial, Marking a New Era for "IO 2.0 + ADC" Strategy

Core Insights - Akeso, Inc. has initiated the Phase I clinical trial for AK138D1, a HER3-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), in Australia, marking a significant step in the company's oncology treatment development [1][7] - The company aims to redefine cancer treatment standards through its "IO 2.0 + ADC" strategy, leveraging its bispecific antibodies and innovative ADC therapies [2][4] Company Overview - Akeso is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative biological medicines, with a robust pipeline of over 50 assets targeting various diseases, including cancer [8][9] - The company has established a comprehensive R&D innovation system and a GMP-compliant manufacturing system, positioning itself as a globally competitive player in the biopharmaceutical industry [8][9] Product Development - AK138D1 is designed to target HER3, which is implicated in various malignancies, including breast, ovarian, and lung cancers, and aims to enhance drug efficacy while minimizing toxicity [6][7] - The ADC is conjugated to a topoisomerase I inhibitor, DXd, and is expected to induce DNA damage in tumor cells, leading to apoptosis [7] Strategic Focus - Following the success in bispecific antibody development, ADC therapies have become a strategic priority for Akeso, with the goal of creating transformative treatment alternatives for cancer patients [5][6] - The company is committed to establishing new standards of care in oncology through its innovative drug candidates and combination treatment options [2][4]