DM1

Mertansine, also known as DM1, is a maytansinoid-based cytotoxic agent with potent anti-cancer properties. It works by inhibiting cell division through blocking the polymerisation of tubulin, a protein that is essential for the formation of the mitotic spindle during cell division. By interfering with this process, mertansine prevents cancer cells from properly dividing and proliferating, ultimately leading to cell death.
Mertansine is commonly used as a payload in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a type of targeted therapy that combines the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy. In this context, mertansine is conjugated to an antibody that selectively binds to cancer cells, delivering the cytotoxic agent directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Overall, mertansine has shown promise in the treatment of various types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer. Its unique mechanism of action and targeted delivery make it a valuable tool in the fight against cancer.