AGK-102

AGK-102 is a first-in-class humanized monoclonal antibody developed by Algok Bio for the treatment of TM4SF4-expressing solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer. Originally discovered by researchers at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), AGK-102 specifically targets Transmembrane 4 L Six Family Member 4 (TM4SF4), a biomarker associated with cancer stem cells. By binding to TM4SF4, the antibody down-regulates the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and osteopontin (OPN), thereby disrupting the OPN-JAK/STAT3 autocrine signaling loop. This mechanism suppresses cancer stem cell-like properties, inhibits tumor progression, and promotes the activation of cytotoxic T-cells. As of early 2024, the drug is in the IND-enabling stage of development, with clinical trials expected to commence in the near future.