B7-H3-mediated cis-inhibition of EGFR by a tumor-selective bispecific antibody enhances anti-tumor efficacy and minimizes toxicities

Nat Commun. 2026 Feb 24;17(1):3113. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-69703-7.

Abstract

Therapeutic targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in solid tumors faces significant limitations due to on-target/off-tumor toxicities, underscoring the urgent need for tumor-selective anti-EGFR therapies. Comprehensive bioinformatics and histopathological analyses identify marked upregulation of B7-H3 across EGFR-positive malignancies, contrasting with its minimal expression in healthy tissues. Leveraging an unbiased functional screen of bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) combining diverse B7-H3 and EGFR binders, we develop IBI334, a EGFR/B7-H3 bsAb exhibiting exceptional tumor selectivity. In preclinical models, IBI334 outperforms conventional EGFR antibodies by demonstrating superior EGFR occupancy, enhanced ligand-blocking efficacy, accelerated receptor degradation, and potent suppression of downstream EGFR signaling. Mechanistic studies demonstrate B7-H3-mediated cis-inhibition. The human B7-H3 extracellular domain (ECD) in complex with anti-B7-H3 Fab is resolved by cryo-EM, revealing critical residues for the antibody-B7-H3 interaction. IBI334 demonstrates robust antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo across EGFR-driven tumor models and synergized effectively with KRAS inhibitors. Toxicological evaluations in non-human primates reveals a favorable safety profile, with no EGFR-related adverse effects observed at doses up to 120 mg/kg over 4 weeks. Supported by these preclinical findings, IBI334 has advanced to a phase 1 clinical trial (NCT05774873) for advanced/metastatic solid tumors.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Bispecific* / immunology
  • Antibodies, Bispecific* / pharmacology
  • Antibodies, Bispecific* / therapeutic use
  • B7 Antigens* / genetics
  • B7 Antigens* / immunology
  • B7 Antigens* / metabolism
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • ErbB Receptors* / antagonists & inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors* / immunology
  • ErbB Receptors* / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays

Substances

  • Antibodies, Bispecific
  • ErbB Receptors
  • B7 Antigens
  • CD276 protein, human
  • EGFR protein, human

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT05774873