MIL40-15

MIL40-15 is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) developed by Mabworks, consisting of the anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody MIL40 (a trastuzumab biosimilar) conjugated to the microtubule-disrupting agent monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). The ADC utilizes a novel ionized cysteine (Cys) linker designed to enhance plasma stability and therapeutic safety. Upon binding to HER2-overexpressing tumor cells, MIL40-15 is internalized via endocytosis and trafficked to lysosomes, where the linker is cleaved to release the MMAE payload. MMAE then binds to tubulin, inhibiting polymerization and inducing cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, ultimately leading to apoptosis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated potent antitumor activity in HER2-positive breast and gastric cancer models with an improved safety profile compared to traditional ADC linkers.