3D rendering of Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) in a biological environment

HWK-007 (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT07444814) is a Phase 1 first-in-human clinical trial evaluating an investigational PTK7-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)—a targeted therapy designed to deliver treatment directly to cancer cells that express the PTK7 protein—in adults with advanced solid tumors. The trial is part of a multicenter research effort. At OSF HealthCare, the study is being led by Principal Investigator Michelle Rowland, MD, PhD, MPH, with Clinical Research Coordinator Lisa Gale.

This study is testing a new kind of targeted medicine for people with advanced non-squamous lung cancer (EGFR wild type), platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. The investigational drug uses an antibody to find cancer cells that have a specific protein called PTK7 on their surface and then delivers a powerful anti-cancer agent directly to those cells. Researchers are studying whether this approach is safe and if it can help control the cancer in patients whose disease has progressed.

This study is meaningful for patients and our community because it explores a new targeted approach for difficult-to-treat cancers. Many patients with advanced solid tumors have limited options, and early-phase research like this helps bring innovative therapies closer to those who need them most. Support for clinical trials through OSF HealthCare allows us to offer hope and advance care for future generations.

“OSF HealthCare continues to accelerate its role in early-phase cancer research, collaborating with global biotechnology partners to bring complex clinical studies to our region,” said Michelle Rowland, MD, PhD, MPH, Principal Investigator at OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute. “By participating in clinical research, we are able to offer eligible patients the opportunity of early access to potentially life-saving treatments.”

The study includes evaluation of the investigational therapy, with all treatment approaches being studied for research purposes in accordance with the approved study protocol.

All clinical research conducted at OSF HealthCare undergoes rigorous review and ongoing oversight to help ensure patient safety and ethical conduct.

Patients interested in learning more about clinical research at OSF HealthCare are encouraged to speak with their care team, call (844) 673-4467 or Email: sfmc.clinicaltrials@osfhealthcare.org