Akeso Advances Cancer Treatment with ‘IO 2.0 + ADC 2.0’ Strategy
Akeso, Inc. Is accelerating its innovative cancer treatment approach, receiving clearance to initiate Phase II clinical trials for two antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs): AK146D1 and AK138D1. This marks a significant step forward in the company’s “IO 2.0 + ADC 2.0” combination platform, aiming to reshape the landscape of advanced solid tumor therapies.
Next-Generation ADCs: A Dual-Targeted Approach
AK146D1 is a first-in-class bispecific ADC designed to target both Trop2 and Nectin4, proteins frequently found on epithelial-derived cancers like lung, breast, and bladder cancers. This dual-targeting strategy aims to improve selectivity and overcome resistance often seen with single-target therapies. AK138D1 focuses on HER3, a receptor linked to tumor progression and resistance to existing treatments in cancers such as ovarian, colorectal, melanoma, and prostate cancers.
Early data suggests both AK146D1 and AK138D1 demonstrate promising anti-tumor activity with manageable safety profiles.
Combining IO 2.0 with ADC 2.0: A Synergistic Strategy
Akeso’s strategy involves combining these novel ADCs with its established immuno-oncology (IO) bispecific antibodies, cadonilimab (PD-1/CTLA-4) and ivonescimab (PD-1/VEGF). These IO therapies will serve as a foundational backbone, leveraging their clinical success in checkpoint blockades and dual VEGF/PD-1 inhibition. The company is also exploring synergies with other internal assets like AK117 (anti-CD47) and AK109 (anti-VEGF).
This approach builds on Akeso’s position as the only company globally with two approved cancer immunotherapy bispecific antibodies, cadonilimab and ivonescimab, both approved in China.
Expanding the Horizon: Beyond ‘IO + ADC’
Akeso isn’t limiting its innovation to the “IO 2.0 + ADC 2.0” combination. The company is actively pursuing a broader portfolio of combination approaches, including IO 2.0 combinations with other immune checkpoint inhibitors, mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccines (AK154), DNA-based therapeutics, and novel therapeutic platforms.
Did you know? Akeso’s Tetrabody multi-specific antibody platform, Dual-Shield Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs), and other proprietary technologies are central to its robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets.
Akeso: A Global Biopharmaceutical Leader
Founded in 2012, Akeso has established a comprehensive research and development ecosystem. The company boasts a global-standard GMP manufacturing infrastructure and an integrated commercialization model. With 27 candidates in clinical trials, including 15 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs, and 7 commercially available drugs, Akeso is positioned as a key player in global oncology innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ADC? An antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) is a targeted therapy that combines the specificity of antibodies with the potency of cytotoxic drugs, delivering the drug directly to cancer cells.
What is ‘IO 2.0’? IO 2.0 refers to the next generation of immuno-oncology therapies, often involving bispecific antibodies that target multiple immune checkpoints simultaneously.
What are bispecific antibodies? Bispecific antibodies are engineered to bind to two different targets simultaneously, enhancing their therapeutic effect.
What is Akeso’s focus? Akeso is focused on the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative biological medicines, particularly in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, and inflammation.
Pro Tip: The combination of different therapeutic modalities, like IO and ADCs, is a growing trend in cancer treatment, aiming to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes.
Learn more about Akeso’s innovative pipeline and commitment to cancer research here.
