Rational engineering of degradation tail-driven CELMoD-antibody conjugates for precision malignancy therapy

Degrader–antibody conjugates (DACs) represent a promising drug modality for targeting hematological malignancy, but still lack rational design frameworks. Here, we show the strategies of reasonable antibody-degrader compatibility and degradation tail-derived conjugatability through a systematic exploration. Inspired by the success of IKZF1/3 degraders, we sought to explore the potential of cereblon E3 ligase modulators (CELMoDs) in constructing novel conjugates. By combining a modular library with neo-substrate screening and further conjugatable derivation, I034 was identified, a potent CELMoD payload with picomolar degradation activity and antiproliferative effects. Through linker chemistry, I034-based DACs were constructed and demonstrated superior efficacy and safety compared to auristatin-based conjugates both in vitro and in vivo, with the CD38-targeting Dara-VA-I034 achieving complete tumor eradication at low doses. Mechanistic insights revealed distinct positive feedback regulation of CD38 conjugates, highlighting the need for compatibility between payloads and antigens. These results demonstrate that the approach could provide a framework for discovering CELMoD payloads and advancing DACs for treating multiple myeloma and other malignancies.