Whitehawk Therapeutics Expands Its ADC Pipeline Through Strategic Agreement with Hangzhou DAC

Whitehawk Therapeutics Expands ADC Pipeline

In an impressive move to enhance its cancer treatment capabilities, Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: WHWK), a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company, has announced a strategic new option agreement with Hangzhou DAC. This deal focuses on the opportunity to develop up to five additional antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) programs, utilizing the innovative CPT113 linker-payload technology at the heart of Whitehawk's platform.

The new agreement, revealed on May 21, 2026, underscores Whitehawk's commitment to advancing effective oncology therapies by integrating advanced technologies within established tumor biology. The company plans to combine its proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing (CBCR) bioconjugation process with CPT113, with an aim to significantly improve stability and therapeutic index in its ADC treatments.

Path Forward with CPT113

Dave Lennon, PhD, who serves as the President and CEO of Whitehawk Therapeutics, expressed confidence in CPT113's potential within their ADC strategy. The agreement facilitates Whitehawk’s exploration of various targets and antibody sources while granting them global rights and full control of the newly developed ADC programs. The company anticipates filing Investigational New Drug (IND) applications for several of these programs in the next 12 to 24 months, showcasing a robust execution momentum across their portfolio.

CPT113’s significance is further validated by its application in Hangzhou DAC's DXC006 program. This ADC, which targets CD56, is currently undergoing a Phase 1 clinical trial in China focusing on solid tumors, including small-cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. The preliminary data from DXC006 highlight its potential effectiveness and safety, showcasing the promising nature of CPT113.

Ongoing Trials and Expanding Pipeline

In tandem with this new agreement, Whitehawk is actively progressing on several clinical trials. The Phase 1 trials for HWK-007 and HWK-016 are in dose-escalation stages, with data expected in the first half of 2027. HWK-007 has recently completed its first dose cohort at 2 mg/kg and is currently enrolling patients for its second cohort at 4 mg/kg, particularly evaluating its impact on various cancers such as non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer. Meanwhile, HWK-016 is engaging its initial dose cohort at 2.5 mg/kg, focusing on patients suffering from advanced ovarian and endometrial cancers.

The design for HWK-007's Phase 1 study is set to be presented at the upcoming American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference, with expectations for insightful revelations regarding its therapeutic potential. This strategic presentation at ASCO reflects Whitehawk’s drive to share progress and gain valuable insights from the broader oncology community.

Looking Ahead

As Whitehawk Therapeutics continues to evolve, the integration of its proprietary technologies alongside the richer ADC pipeline offers a beacon of hope for patients facing difficult-to-treat cancers. By strategically utilizing partnerships like that with Hangzhou DAC and focusing on innovative treatment modalities such as CPT113, Whitehawk positions itself at the forefront of oncology therapeutics development. With a comprehensive portfolio and an optimistic outlook on clinical advancements, the coming months and years promise to be transformative in the fight against cancer.

In conclusion, Whitehawk Therapeutics stands at a pivotal juncture, leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic alliances to enhance its ADC capabilities. The future looks promising, not just for the company but for patients requiring new and effective treatment options in oncology. For more information on Whitehawk Therapeutics and its innovative approach, visit www.whitehawktx.com.