Fourth World Antibody-Drug Conjugate Summit: February 29–March 1, 2012, Frankfurt, Germany

The 4th World Antibody Drug Conjugate (WADC) Summit, organized by Hanson Wade was held on February 29‑March 1, 2012 in Frankfurt, Germany, which was also the location for the Antibody Drug Conjugate Summit Europe held in February 2011. During the one year between these meetings, antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) have confirmed their technological maturity and their clinical efficacy in oncology. Brentuximab vedotin (ADCETRIS(TM)) gained approval by the US Food and Drug Administration in August 2011 and trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) confirmed impressive clinical efficacy responses in a large cohort of breast cancer patients. During the 4th WADC meeting, antibody-maytansinoid conjugates were showcased by representatives of ImmunoGen (T-DM1, SAR3419, lorvotuzumab mertansine/IMGN801, IMGN529 and IMG853) and Biotest (BT-062). Data on antibody-auristatin conjugates were presented by scientists and clinicians from Seattle Genetics and Takeda (brentuximab vedotin), Pfizer (5T4-MMAF), Agensys/Astella (AGS-16M8F), Progenics (PSMA-ADC) and Genmab (anti-TF ADCs). Alternative payloads such as calicheamicins and duocarmycin used for preparation of ADCs were discussed by Pfizer and Synthon representatives, respectively. In addition, emerging technologies, including site-directed conjugation (Ambrx), a protein toxin as payload (Viventia), hapten-binding bispecific antibodies (Roche), and use of light activated drugs (Photobiotics), were also presented. Last but not least, progresses in solving Chemistry Manufacturing and Control, and pharmacokinetic issues were addressed by scientists from Genentech, Pfizer, Novartis and Pierre Fabre.