Technology | Glykos

Tubulin inhibitors

MMAU, novel auristatin with improved therapeutic window

Auristatins are the most widely used payload class in ADCs. They are potent microtubule disrupting agents that preferentially target cancer cells and act synergistically with other cancer drugs including immunotherapeutics. Glykos’ novel auristatin MMAU is a glucuronide modification of the standard auristatin MMAE that is currently being used in the marketed ADCs Brentuximab Vedotin (Adcetris®), Enfortumab Vedotin (Padcev®), and Polatuzumab Vedotin (Polivy®). Glykos’ linker-payload technology widens the therapeutic window of MMAU ADCs compared to MMAE ADCs by improving ADC pharmacokinetics, stability, and efficacy.

DNA damaging agents

Exatecan with hydrophilic linker technology

Exatecan is a camptothecin-based molecule and inhibits topoisomerase I. It is part of the linker-payload of Enhertu® (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nx). Glykos has developed an optimized hydrophilic linker-exatecan for stable DAR=8 cysteine conjugation of exatecan-ADCs.

Dual Payloads

Dual-Payload ADCs – Redefining Targeted Cytotoxicity

Glykos develops next-generation dual-payload antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) that unite two complementary cytotoxic mechanisms through its proprietary linker–payload and conjugation platform. Our technology enables precise, site-specific attachment of diverse payload classes — including auristatins (MMAU variants), exatecan-derived Topo-I inhibitors, and novel proprietary agents — each optimized for controlled release and balanced pharmacokinetics.
By combining synergistic mechanisms in one targeted therapy, Glykos’ dual-payload ADCs achieve enhanced potency, reduced resistance, and broader tumor coverage while maintaining a favorable safety profile. This integrated chemistry platform expands the design space for advanced ADCs, positioning Glykos at the forefront of innovative, mechanism-driven cancer therapeutics.