Precision targeting of CLDN18.2: A new therapeutic paradigm for gastric cancer.

Claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2) is an attractive therapeutic target in gastric cancer (GC). Zolbetuximab, a CLDN18.2-targeted monoclonal antibody, has been approved in combination with chemotherapy as a first-line treatment option for patients with HER2-negative and CLDN18.2-positive gastric adenocarcinoma. This review summarizes current advances in CLDN18.2-targeted therapies for GC, with a focus on the clinical development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), particularly zolbetuximab and emerging next-generation antibodies, as well as mAb-based combination strategies. This review also summarizes CLDN18.2-targeted antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy, highlighting emerging therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, major challenges and considerations in clinical and translational research are outlined. In conclusion, precision targeting of CLDN18.2 represents a promising approach in GC therapy, shifting from conventional chemotherapy to biomarker-guided strategies. Continued development of next-generation agents and rational combination therapies may enhance outcomes and expand benefit.