Pyrrolobenzodiazepine dimers for chemotherapy and antibody-drug conjugate applications.

Pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) dimers constitute a class of highly cytotoxic agents that induce apoptosis through the formation of effective DNA interstrand cross-links by binding to the minor groove of DNA. This mechanism highlights the critical role of PBD dimers in the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Within ADCs, PBD dimers act as potent payloads that are specifically delivered to cancer cells via monoclonal antibodies, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing collateral damage to normal tissues. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in PBD dimer research and their applications in ADC therapeutics.