Description
ASG-5ME is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) composed of a fully human monoclonal antibody directed to SLC44A4 (AGS-5), a novel cancer target shown to be upregulated in a number of epithelial tumors.

The antibody is attached to a highly potent, synthetic agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), via an enzyme-cleavable linker using Seattle Genetics’ proprietary technology. The novel linker system is designed to be stable in the bloodstream and release the potent cell-killing agent once inside antigen-expressing cancer cells. This approach is intended to spare non-targeted cells and thus reduce many of the toxic effects of traditional chemotherapy while enhancing the antitumor activity.

We are co-developing ASG-5ME under a joint development agreement with Agensys, an affiliate of Astellas.

Status
In July 2010, we initiated a phase I clinical trial of ASG-5ME in patients with pancreatic cancer. In addition, under our collaboration with Agensys, a phase I trial of ASG-5ME for prostate cancer was initiated in October 2010. Both trials are designed to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and antitumor activity of ASG-5ME. Preclinical studies demonstrated that ASG-5ME induced long-term regressions in preclinical models of established pancreatic, prostate, and colon cancers.