Antibody-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (ADEPT)

Antibody-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (ADEPT) is based on an inactive prodrug, which is selectively converted to its active form, at the tumor site, by a specific enzyme conjugated to a tumor-specific antibody, capable of selectively targeting the cancer. This chapter traces the evolution of ADEPT, starting from the first proposed mechanism up to the most recent technological innovations, with reference to enzymes, prodrugs, and antibodies, analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of this therapy. Furthermore, the key issue of immunogenicity is discussed, and the clinical studies conducted so far are briefly described.