ZB131-MMAE

ZB131-MMAE is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) developed by ZielBio, Inc., designed to target cancer-specific plectin (CSP). CSP is a protein selectively expressed on the surface of various malignant cells, including those in pancreatic, ovarian, and bile duct cancers, while remaining absent in healthy tissues. The ADC comprises the humanized monoclonal antibody ZB131 conjugated to the potent cytotoxic agent monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) with a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of 3-4. ZB131-MMAE binds specifically to CSP, undergoes rapid internalization, and releases its MMAE payload intracellularly to inhibit microtubule assembly and trigger apoptosis. Preclinical data presented at AACR 2023 demonstrated significant antitumor activity and a favorable safety profile, supporting its potential clinical evaluation.