Asher Bio Advances NSCLC Treatment With AstraZeneca Partnership

Asher Bio Announces Clinical Supply Agreement

Asher Biotherapeutics is making significant strides in the realm of oncology with the announcement of a clinical supply agreement with AstraZeneca. This collaboration aims to evaluate etakafusp alfa, also recognized as AB248, alongside rilvegostomig. This combination will be assessed within a global Phase 1b/2 study focused on patients suffering from advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

The Significance of the Agreement

This alliance is a testament to the promising clinical data emerging from Asher Bio’s Phase 1 investigation into etakafusp alfa. Initial findings indicate an impressive clinical pharmacodynamic profile, achieving remarkable levels of selective CD8+ T cell activation. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence suggesting an anti-tumor effect observed, including confirmed objective responses, as expressed by Don O’Sullivan, Ph.D., Chief Business Officer of Asher Bio. His enthusiasm reflects the potential of etakafusp alfa to enhance treatment outcomes for NSCLC patients globally.

Evaluating Advanced NSCLC Treatments

As part of this agreement, AstraZeneca is set to sponsor a comprehensive global study to explore the safety and early efficacy of etakafusp alfa in conjunction with rilvegostomig as a first-line therapy for NSCLC. Under this partnership, Asher Bio will retain ownership of etakafusp alfa, supplying it to AstraZeneca free of charge to facilitate the research.

Understanding Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer accounts for a substantial majority of lung cancer cases, representing about 80-85%. With approximately 235,000 new diagnoses anticipated each year, this form of lung cancer originates in the cells lining the airways, leading to invasive behavior and potential metastasis. Often diagnosed at late stages, NSCLC presents formidable treatment challenges, with a disheartening 5-year relative survival rate of just 26.7%, highlighting a critical need for innovative treatment options.

About Etakafusp Alfa (AB248)

Etakafusp alfa is a novel investigational therapy designed to target CD8+ T cells selectively. This therapeutic approach involves engineering a reduced potency IL-2 mutein fused with an anti-CD8? antibody. The strategic design of etakafusp alfa aims to activate CD8+ T cells effectively while minimizing activation of NK cells and regulatory T cells, which are associated with safety concerns. Currently, Asher Bio is advancing etakafusp alfa in a Phase 1a/1b clinical trial designated AB248-101. This study will evaluate the safety and pharmacological profiles of this therapy and its potential against various solid tumors.

What's Next for Asher Bio?

Asher Bio is committed to leveraging its innovative technologies to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapies. With lead programs like etakafusp alfa alongside additional candidates such as AB821, a CD8-targeted IL-21 immunotherapy, the company aims to pave the way for improved treatment landscapes in oncology. Their proprietary cis-targeting platform is designed to selectively activate immune cells that are effective against cancer while avoiding those that may cause adverse effects.

The Vision for Future Treatments

The collaboration with AstraZeneca not only symbolizes a proactive step towards enhancing treatment outcomes for NSCLC patients but also reflects Asher Bio's broader commitment to developing targeted therapies. By aligning with industry leaders, Asher Bio is ideally positioned to accelerate the development and evaluation of innovative immunotherapy options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the agreement between Asher Bio and AstraZeneca?

Asher Bio has entered a clinical supply agreement with AstraZeneca to evaluate etakafusp alfa in combination with rilvegostomig for the treatment of advanced NSCLC patients.

What is etakafusp alfa?

Etakafusp alfa is an investigational immunotherapy designed to selectively activate CD8+ T cells, aimed at treating different cancers, including NSCLC.

Why is NSCLC significant in cancer research?

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, representing a considerable proportion of new cases yearly, necessitating advanced treatment options and research investments.

What outcomes are expected from the global Phase 1b/2 study?

The study aims to determine the safety and early efficacy of etakafusp alfa alongside rilvegostomig as a potential first-line treatment for NSCLC.

How does Asher Bio’s technology work?

Asher Bio utilizes a cis-targeting platform to develop therapies that specifically engage immune cells, promoting effective responses against cancers while minimizing side effects.

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