Merck to showcase three late-stage TROP2 ADC trials at ESMO 2026, VP says payload is in the "Goldilocks zone"

At the European Society for Medical Oncology meeting in 2026, Merck will present three late-stage trials of its TROP2‑directed antibody‑drug conjugate sac‑TMT, developed in partnership with Kelun‑Biotech.

Alan Northrup, Merck's Vice President of Chemistry, described the ADC's payload release as being in the "Goldilocks zone," indicating a balance that aims to maximize tumor killing while limiting toxicity.

Analysts note that the ADC market is crowded and differentiation is key. Truist Securities called ADCs an attractive oncology modality but warned that a crowded pipeline raises the bar for differentiation. H.C. Wainwright added that the ADC boom could reshape oncology and help Merck defend its market position.

Merck's push into ADCs follows its earlier success with the PD‑1 inhibitor Keytruda, and the company hopes the forthcoming data will support its expansion into this growing therapeutic area.