ADC Development Services Targeting FOLR1

Antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) is a novel targeted therapeutic agent and it is believed as a promising strategy for cancer treatment, which possesses the specificity of monoclonal antibody (mAb) and the potent cytotoxicity of drug. Currently, a large number of ADCs have been developed for all kinds of cancer diseases.

As a profession biotechnology company, Creative Biolabs have extensive expertise and experience in the field of ADCs construction. We offer a range of customized ADCs design and development services against the FOLR1 for our clients. Our goal is to provide you with the most affordable and high-quality products and services to ensure your satisfaction in a timely and professional manner.

Introduction of FOLR1

FOLR1 (Folate receptor 1), also known as folate receptor alpha (FRα), is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored cell surface protein encoded by the FOLR1 gene. It belongs to the folate receptor (FOLR) family with high affinity to folic acid or folic acid derivatives. FOLR1 and FRβ share the highest degree of homology of FRs family, while having different expression patterns. FOLR1 is mainly expressed on epithelial cells such as in the choroid plexus, proximal kidney tubules, fallopian tube and so on, but FRβ is limitedly expressed by normal hematopoietic myeloid cells. The major function of FOLR1 is to scavenge folates back into the bloodstream. Besides, it has been found highly expressed in ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other cancers. Thus, FOLR1 is considered as an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy currently.

Fig.1 Main aspects of folate receptor signaling and C1 metabolism. (Frigerio, 2019)

Anti-FOLR1 ADC in Ovarian Cancer

The overexpression of FOLR1 is found in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), which is a useful target for the development of novel therapeutics such as the ADCs. Mirvetuximab soravtansine (also known as IMGN853) is an ADC targeting the FOLR1, which consists of a humanized anti-FRα monoclonal antibody linked to the maytansinoid DM4 via a cleavable linker. DM4 is a potent microtubule inhibitor that can trigger mitotic arrest and cause the death of tumor cells. Preclinical studies were assessed in EOC and showed that the combinations of IMGN853 with carboplatin or doxorubicin resulted in significant antitumor activity in the IGROV-1 ovarian cancer cell line in vitro. In addition, IMGN853 also improved the outcome of platinum-resistant EOC in vivo combining with bevacizumab, which can lead to positive tumor regressions and complete responses. Taking together, the ADC against FOLR1 demonstrated the significant benefit and potential for the treatment of patients with advanced OC. To date, mirvetuximab soravtansine is investigated in the phase III clinical trial.

Fig.2 Schematic illustration of FRα-targeting agents vintafolide, farletuzumab and IMGN853. FRα, folate receptor α. (Lutz, 2015)

What Can We Do for You?

ADCs combine the unique targeting capabilities of monoclonal antibodies with cytotoxic drug loads, and represent one of the fastest fields of immunotherapy for cancer. Creative Biolabs focuses on the ADCs development for more than ten years, we provide comprehensive ADCs preparation services, including ADC Antibody Screening, DrugLnk™ Custom Synthesis, Antibody Design and Conjugation, ADC in vitro Analysis and ADC in vivo Analysis. As a leader of a biotechnology company, we are proud to provide flexible and reliable services to accelerate your research. Our state-of-the-art labs are staffed by well trained and most profession experts in the field. Contact us today for a free consultation or a quote.

References

1. Frigerio, B.; et al. Folate receptors and transporters: biological role and diagnostic/therapeutic targets in cancer and other diseases. 2019.
2. Lutz, R. J. Targeting the folate receptor for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Translational Cancer Research. 2015, 4(1): 118-126.

For Research Use Only. NOT FOR CLINICAL USE.