Therapeutic target of the released drug moiety

The term "Therapeutic target of the released drug moiety" does not refer to a specific biological molecule or receptor, but rather describes a functional role within the context of targeted drug delivery systems, such as Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) or prodrugs. In these systems, there are typically two distinct targets: the primary targeting moiety (e.g., a cell-surface antigen like HER2) and the secondary intracellular target of the active drug payload (e.g., Tubulin or Topoisomerase I). This entry is considered incorrect as a canonical target name because it is a descriptive placeholder for the actual molecular entity that the released drug interacts with to exert its therapeutic effect. Because the specific target varies depending on the payload used (e.g., MMAE targets tubulin, while DXd targets topoisomerase I), it cannot be classified under a single molecular or biological category. Biotech analysts should identify the specific chemical payload to determine the actual therapeutic target and its associated safety profile.

Other names

Payload targetWarhead targetIntracellular target of the conjugated drugCytotoxic target

The mechanism of action depends entirely on the specific drug moiety (payload) being released, such as microtubule inhibition, DNA intercalation, or topoisomerase inhibition.