Whitehawk Secures Option for Five New ADC Programs Using CPT113, Plans IND Filings
WHWK•Whitehawk secured an option to develop up to five new ADC programs using CPT113 linker-payload technology, selecting targets and sourcing antibodies for IND filings over the next 12-24 months. Phase 1 dose-escalation trials for HWK-007 and HWK-016 have enrolled 2 mg/kg and 2.5 mg/kg cohorts, respectively, with HWK-007 moving to 4 mg/kg.
1. Option Agreement Expands ADC Portfolio
Whitehawk entered into an option agreement with Hangzhou DAC to access CPT113 linker-payload for up to five new internally developed ADC programs. The company will select targets, source antibodies and retain global rights while planning Investigational New Drug submissions over the next 12 to 24 months.
2. External Validation of CPT113 Technology
Data from Hangzhou DAC's DXC006 CD56-directed ADC presentations demonstrated clinical activity and a favorable safety profile, reinforcing CPT113's potency. Johnson & Johnson's preclinical findings for an EGFR/MET ADC using CPT113 further validate the linker-payload platform.
3. Progress in Ongoing Clinical Trials
Whitehawk's Phase 1 dose-escalation trials for PTK7-targeted HWK-007 and MUC16-targeted HWK-016 have enrolled cohorts at 2 mg/kg and 2.5 mg/kg, respectively, with HWK-007 advancing to a 4 mg/kg cohort. HWK-007 is evaluated in non-squamous NSCLC, platinum-resistant ovarian and endometrial cancers, while HWK-016 targets advanced ovarian and endometrial tumors.
4. Pipeline Expansion and Future Outlook
The company’s CBCR bioconjugation process aims to deliver higher drug-to-antibody ratios and improved therapeutic indices over first-generation ADCs. Whitehawk anticipates filing multiple INDs within two years to activate new programs and accelerate clinical development.
