ZL-1310: A Promising ADC for Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer

Zai Lab's investigational antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), ZL-1310, has demonstrated encouraging results in a Phase 1 study for the treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The drug, which targets Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), has shown promising objective response rates and a favorable safety profile, positioning it as a potential new treatment option for this aggressive cancer type.

ZL-1310's novel linker-payload platform, TMALIN®, contributes to its efficacy and safety profile. TMALIN® is designed to activate in the tumor microenvironment, enhancing ZL-1310's potency against DLL3-positive SCLC cells. This activation mechanism allows for targeted delivery of the drug's payload, a novel camptothecin derivative, to cancer cells while minimizing off-target toxicity. As a result, ZL-1310 has shown a favorable safety profile in the Phase 1 study, with no dose-limiting toxicities reported.

DLL3 overexpression plays a significant role in SCLC, as it is associated with poor clinical outcomes. ZL-1310's targeting of this antigen enhances its therapeutic potential by selectively binding to DLL3-positive cancer cells, leading to their destruction. In the Phase 1 study, ZL-1310 demonstrated an objective response rate of 40% in patients with extensive-stage SCLC, compared to historical response rates of around 15% for standard chemotherapy regimens.


ZL-1310's success in the Phase 1 study has the potential to significantly impact the market for SCLC treatments. The unmet need for effective therapies in this indication is substantial, with limited treatment options available for patients with extensive-stage disease. If approved, ZL-1310 could offer a new, targeted treatment option for SCLC patients, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.


Zai Lab's commitment to developing next-generation ADCs, such as ZL-1310, positions the company as a leader in the competitive oncology landscape. With a growing, internally developed global oncology pipeline, Zai Lab is well-positioned to capitalize on the market potential of innovative therapies like ZL-1310.

The preliminary results of ZL-1310's Phase 1 study have the potential to significantly influence the drug's market size and commercial success in treating SCLC. If the drug continues to demonstrate promising efficacy and safety in later-stage clinical trials, it could become a valuable addition to the treatment landscape for this aggressive cancer type.