B7-H4 is expressed also by prostate cancer and it is considered an independent bio marker for aggressive PCa.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for LNCB74, a novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) designed to target the B7-H4 protein found on various cancer cells. This acceptance allows NextCure to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial, marking the beginning of human testing for this potentially game-changing treatment.
LNCB74 is being developed in collaboration with LigaChem Biosciences, Inc.. The drug’s innovative design combines the targeted precision of an antibody with the potent cell-killing ability of a cytotoxic drug. This dual-action approach enables LNCB74 to precisely target cancer cells expressing the B7-H4 protein, delivering the cytotoxic payload directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
The B7-H4 protein itself is a critical target in cancer therapy. It plays a role in suppressing the immune system, effectively shielding cancer cells from detection and destruction by the body’s natural defenses. By targeting and neutralizing B7-H4, LNCB74 aims to dismantle this protective barrier, allowing the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells more effectively.
NextCure’s preclinical data on LNCB74 suggests that it holds significant advantages over other B7-H4-targeting ADCs currently in development.
The upcoming Phase 1 clinical trial will focus on evaluating LNCB74’s safety profile, determining the optimal dosage, and gathering preliminary data on its effectiveness in treating various cancers.

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