TB522

TB522 is a preclinical-stage peptide-drug conjugate (PDC) developed by TwinPigBio, designed to target the tumor microenvironment by specifically depleting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Utilizing the company's proprietary TAMpep™ - ESCLink™ platform, TB522 consists of a targeting peptide linked to a proapoptotic dKLA (D-enantiomer of KLAKLAKKLAKLAK) peptide payload. While the specific molecular target on CAFs remains undisclosed, the drug's mechanism involves binding to the CAF surface, internalization, and subsequent disruption of the mitochondrial membrane by the dKLA payload, leading to apoptosis. This approach aims to neutralize the immunosuppressive and tumor-supportive functions of CAFs within the stroma. As of early 2024, lead optimization for TB522 has been completed.