New ADC Cancer Treatment Will Debut At ESMO Congress

Researchers will present preliminary trial results for a novel bispecific drug targeting advanced solid tumors this December.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Cancer

Isometric editorial illustration of a complex protein structure with two branches, representing a novel bispecific cancer treatment.
Researchers will present Phase 1 trial results for VBC103, a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate targeting solid tumors, at the ESMO Asia Congress. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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At the upcoming ESMO Asia Congress 2026, experts will share preliminary Phase 1 clinical trial results for VBC103, a novel antibody-drug conjugate. This treatment, currently under study for advanced solid tumors, will be presented on December 4, 2026.

Why it matters

This drug candidate represents a potential new approach for patients with advanced solid tumors who may need options that overcome resistance to prior therapies. As a first-in-class bispecific molecule, it is designed to hit two specific cancer targets simultaneously.

Researchers are scheduled to share preliminary data from a Phase 1 clinical study of VBC103, a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate. The findings, set for presentation as abstract 2370, assess the early performance of this dual-targeted approach.

The players

Avenzo Therapeutics

A biotechnology company focused on the development of oncology therapies, including global rights for AVZO-103.

VelaVigo

A pharmaceutical developer that conducted the initial Phase 1 clinical study of VBC103 in Greater China.

Jian Zhang

A professor and researcher who will serve as the scheduled speaker for the upcoming clinical data presentation.

The details

VBC103 acts as a bispecific antibody-drug conjugate that targets both Nectin-4 and TROP2 antigens on the surface of cancer cells. Once it binds to these proteins, it delivers a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor directly into the tumor. By hitting two targets at once, the molecule is intended to potentially bypass the resistance mechanisms that often develop during standard cancer treatments.

Timeline

  1. The oral presentation of VBC103 clinical data is set for December 4, 2026.

  2. The presentation will take place from 10:45-10:55 a.m. SGT.

  3. The ESMO Asia Congress 2026 runs from December 4-6, 2026.

Health Landscape

The development of bispecific antibody-drug conjugates like VBC103 reflects an effort to improve outcomes in advanced solid tumors beyond current standard therapies. This candidate follows a path established by the FDA Fast Track designation process to expedite treatments for serious conditions.

These findings are preliminary and strictly experimental at this stage of development. Patients interested in how such novel therapies might fit into future treatment plans should discuss the latest clinical trial data and eligibility with their oncologist.

The takeaway

This study highlights the potential for bispecific ADCs to improve cancer treatment precision. Keep track of updates on clinical trials for targeted therapies if you are navigating a cancer diagnosis, and always consult your doctor regarding new research developments.

Further reading

Learn more about the latest research and standard care approaches in our Cancer section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Firstwordpharma.

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