What are bispecific antibodies?

Bispecific antibodies are engineered proteins that bind two different targets simultaneously, enhancing immune response against cancer cells.

What are antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)?

ADCs are targeted cancer therapies that link an antibody to a cytotoxic drug, minimizing damage to healthy cells.

Which companies are testing bispecific antibodies?

Bristol Myers Squibb (with BioNTech), AstraZeneca, and Summit Therapeutics are testing them.

Does Merck have a replacement for Keytruda?

Merck has a promising ADC candidate in development, but it is not yet approved.

Beyond Keytruda: The Race for the Next Standard Cancer Treatment

After Keytruda's success as the world's top-selling drug, the focus shifts to next-gen cancer treatments. The new standard may combine antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and bispecific antibodies, with trials by Bristol Myers Squibb, AstraZeneca, and Summit Therapeutics.

July 21, 2026

1 min read

Source: Barrons.com

As Merck's (MRK) Keytruda becomes the standard of care for many cancers, the industry is racing to find the next breakthrough. The next generation is expected to pair antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) with bispecific antibodies.

Details

Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) with partner BioNTech, along with AstraZeneca and biotech firm Summit Therapeutics, are testing bispecific antibodies. Meanwhile, ADCs have generated significant sales for AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Gilead Sciences, and Roche Holding, but Merck has a promising candidate in development.

Context

Keytruda is an immunotherapy targeting PD-1, used with chemotherapy for various cancers. As patents expire, companies seek more effective alternatives.

What This Means for Investors

The race for the next standard treatment presents investment opportunities in biotech and pharma, but clinical outcomes will determine winners. Investors should monitor trial data and regulatory decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Keytruda is a Merck immunotherapy targeting PD-1, used with chemotherapy for various cancers.

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This article was rewritten in Wrqti's editorial style based on information from the original source above. Content is informational only — not investment advice.