Virginia Metrangolo | Postdoc
University of Copenhagen

Festival of Biologics Day 1 @ 17:30

Unveiling the PanCancer potential of dual-mechanistic uPAR-targeting ADCs across cancers

Currently, most approved antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) target tumor-associated antigens. However, this approach hinders effective treatment of solid tumors, particularly those with a dense stromal microenvironment, like pancreatic cancer (PDAC), where the tumor stroma contributes to disease progression, immunosuppression, and drug resistance. To address this challenge, we have developed PanTarg, a novel ADC designed to target both cancer cells and the surrounding stromal environment. PanTarg specifically targets the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), which is overexpressed in both the tumor and stromal compartments of many aggressive cancers, particularly PDAC, with limited expression in normal tissues. This dual-target strategy aims to overcome stromal barriers and expand the range of indications and patient populations that can benefit from ADCs. PanTarg is based on a proprietary uPAR antibody with optimal ADC properties. In preclinical models of PDAC and other uPAR-positive tumors, PanTarg has demonstrated strong anti-tumor and stromal effects, bystander and immune modulatory activities, and good tolerability. These promising results validate uPAR as a compelling ADC target and position PanTarg as a potential new therapeutic option, either as a monotherapy or in combination therapies.

Virginia Metrangolo, Postdoc, University of Copenhagen

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Virginia Metrangolo / Unveiling the PanCancer potential of dual-mechanistic uPAR-targeting ADCs across cancers

Virginia Metrangolo, Postdoc,
University of Copenhagen

Virginia Metrangolo is a Medical biotechnologist working as a postdoctoral researcher in the Engelholm research group at the Finsen Laboratory/Biotech Research and Innovation Centre in Copenhagen. Her research work involves the development of antibody-based therapies, mostly antibody-drug...

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