Advances in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) suggest they could replace traditional chemotherapy for some cancers, offering targeted treatment with fewer side effects. Major pharmaceutical companies are developing and refining ADCs, with some already approved for specific cancers, and ongoing trials aim to expand their use. Despite challenges like toxicity and effectiveness variability, innovations in ADC design and combination therapies are promising, potentially transforming cancer treatment in the coming years.
Merck & Co. has reported promising phase 2 trial results for its ROR1-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), zilovertamab vedotin, showing a 100% complete response rate in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) at certain doses. Despite some safety concerns at higher doses, the company plans to advance the low dose into a phase 3 trial, comparing it to the standard R-CHOP regimen. The trial will focus on progression-free survival as the primary endpoint, with complete response and overall survival as secondary endpoints.
Smolder, the new late-game scaling ADC champion in League of Legends, is set to release on February 7 with patch 14.3. His abilities, which include his passive Dragon Practice and moves like Super Scorcher Breath, Achooo!, Flap, Flap, Flap, and MMOOOMMMM!, are designed to reward consistent ability hits on enemy champions and scale into a formidable force in the late game. Smolder's design aims to be simpler and more approachable compared to recent complex champions, and his numbers are yet to be released.
Riot Games plans to test a new version of the Mythic item system for marksmen in League of Legends, where items transform into "high-power, high-satisfaction, capstones" that define a build. Infinity Edge, Navori Quickblades, Guinsoo's Rageblade, and Galeforce will be the four primary Mythics for AD carries, while Kraken Slayer and Immortal Shieldbow will be featured as legendary items. One iconic marksman item, Statikk Shiv, will be making a return to Summoner's Rift with a different stat profile. Riot is prioritizing high player satisfaction over the original 75% purchase rate scrutiny for Mythic items.
