Akeso Initiates Major Phase III Trial for Colorectal Cancer
Akeso Embarks on a Pivotal Phase III Clinical Trial
Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK) is excited to share a significant milestone in cancer treatment as the first patient has been enrolled in their Phase III clinical trial of ivonescimab. This study, known as AK112-312/HARMONi-GI6, focuses on providing first-line therapy for advanced metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). The aim is to showcase the potential of ivonescimab as a breakthrough treatment for patients struggling with this challenging condition.
The Need for Improvement in Colorectal Cancer Treatments
Colorectal cancer is a pressing global health issue, remaining the third most prevalent cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. In the past years, there have been alarming statistics, with nearly two million new cases emerging and a staggering 904,000 deaths attributed to this disease. A considerable percentage (around 95%) of mCRC cases fall into the microsatellite stable (MSS) or proficient mismatch repair (pMMR) categories, which previously have not responded well to immunotherapy, often characterized as an "immune desert."
A Closer Look at Current Treatment Options
For patients with MSS/pMMR-type mCRC, the options have been mostly limited to several clinical studies that have explored the use of PD-1/L1 inhibitors. Unfortunately, these attempts have shown limited success, with no immunotherapies currently gaining approval for first-line treatment globally. Presently, standard treatment remains chemotherapy combined with targeted therapies like bevacizumab and cetuximab. However, the efficacy of these combinations is still underwhelming, with noted five-year survival rates for advanced cases falling below 20%.
Promising Data from Recent Clinical Trials
At the recent European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress, a compelling presentation by Professor Yanhong Deng highlighted the efficacy of ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy in treating MSS/pMMR-type mCRC. This combination therapy exhibited an impressive overall response rate (ORR) of 81.8%, with a remarkable 100% disease control rate (DCR). A follow-up period of nine months showed promising results, as the median progression-free survival (mPFS) was not reached, with the nine-month PFS rate standing at 81.4%. These findings provide hope that patients, regardless of KRAS/BRAF mutation status, might benefit from ivonescimab.
What Lies Ahead for Ivonescimab in Phase III Trial
The ongoing Phase III trial, AK112-312/HARMONi-GI6, aims to further validate the findings of earlier studies and establish ivonescimab as a revolutionary treatment for patients with advanced mCRC. If successful, this could open doors to new therapeutic options for a population that has felt the weight of limited efficacy from existing treatments.
About Akeso, Inc.
Founded in 2012, Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) has emerged as a leader in the biopharmaceutical sector, focusing on the discovery, development, and commercialization of groundbreaking biologic therapies. Their innovative ACE Platform, which incorporates integrated research and development, underpins their mission to create first-in-class and best-in-class treatments. The company boasts a robust pipeline, presenting over 50 innovative assets targeting various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. With several candidates currently in clinical trials, Akeso is committed to delivering affordable and effective treatments to patients globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Phase III trial for ivonescimab?
The Phase III trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ivonescimab as a first-line treatment for advanced metastatic colorectal cancer.
Why is there a need for new treatments for colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer treatments currently available have limited efficacy, especially for the MSS/pMMR patient population, which represents a significant unmet clinical need.
What are the typical treatment options available for mCRC?
Current standard treatments involve chemotherapy combined with targeted therapies, which often do not provide satisfactory outcomes for patients.
How has ivonescimab performed in previous clinical trials?
Ivonescimab exhibited promising results, demonstrating high response and disease control rates in combination with chemotherapy in earlier studies.
What is Akeso, Inc. known for?
Akeso is recognized for its innovative biopharmaceutical research and development, particularly in the creation of unique biologic medicines aimed at addressing major health challenges.
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