Transgene and BioInvent Present at ESMO 2025
Transgene, a biotech company focused on innovative virus-based immunotherapies, and BioInvent International AB, known for its groundbreaking immune-modulatory antibodies, are about to make headlines. Together, they are set to share exciting updates regarding their joint research on the armed oncolytic virus BT-001 during the prestigious European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Annual Meeting.
Significant Findings on BT-001
In a collaborative presentation, both companies will unveil the translational data and updated clinical results from their Phase I study related to BT-001. This promising research highlights the potential of BT-001 combined with pembrolizumab in providing substantial benefits for patients battling advanced cancers.
Overview of the Study Results
The findings from the study indicate that the intra-tumoral injection of BT-001, when combined with pembrolizumab, shows a manageable safety profile and is well tolerated among participants. An important aspect of the results showcases the anti-tumor activity, especially among patients with melanoma and leiomyosarcoma, who experienced notable tumor shrinkage in both injected and non-injected lesions.
Encouraging Responses
Among the 13 patients who participated, the treatment demonstrated remarkably encouraging responses. A patient with PD(L)-1 resistant melanoma exhibited a partial response lasting six months, while another suffered from heavily pretreated and immune checkpoint inhibitor-naive leiomyosarcoma experienced an impressive partial response lasting 16 months. This data supports the idea that BT-001 could serve as an effective treatment option to enhance responses to immunotherapies in refractory patients.
Future Presentations and Availability
The prestigious ESMO Annual Meeting in Berlin will take place from October 17 to 21, 2025. The poster presentation regarding this research will occur on October 20. Following the conference, the poster will also be available for public viewing on Transgene's official website, allowing interested parties to access extensive information regarding this breakthrough study.
Innovations Behind BT-001
BT-001 is a product of Transgene's innovative Invir.IO® platform, engineered using a proprietary oncolytic virus model. This advanced virus has been designed not only to attack cancer cells but also to foster an immune response. Notably, it is combined with a Treg-depleting recombinant human anti-CTLA-4 antibody developed by BioInvent. This strategy signifies a cutting-edge approach to cancer treatment that may pave the way for new therapeutic options.
Co-Development and Collaboration
This exciting journey of BT-001 is a 50/50 collaboration between Transgene and BioInvent. In the Phase I stage, BT-001 has been successful both as a standalone treatment and when used in conjunction with Merck's KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab). The positive outcomes observed in the study further emphasize the potential of BT-001 in transforming currently incurable cancers.
Study Overview
The Phase I/IIa study, categorized under NCT04725331, focuses on a multicenter, open-label, dose-escalation evaluation of BT-001, assessing it both alone and with pembrolizumab. The Phase I portion recently reached its conclusion as they successfully enrolled the last patient.
Transforming Tumors
One remarkable outcome of using BT-001 is its ability to convert 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors, leading to significant T-cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. These changes are promising indicators of enhanced immune response.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, key contacts from Transgene include Caroline Tosch, the Corporate and Scientific Communications Manager, reachable at +33 (0)3 68 33 27 38 or via email at communication@transgene.fr. Additionally, BioInvent's VP of Investor Relations, Cecilia Hofvander, can be contacted at +46 (0)46 286 85 50 or through her email at cecilia.hofvander@bioinvent.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BT-001?
BT-001 is an oncolytic virus engineered for cancer treatment, utilizing a proprietary viral backbone and combining it with immune-modulatory antibodies.
What results were presented regarding BT-001?
The study showcased promising tumor responses in patients, indicating the potential of BT-001 when combined with pembrolizumab.
When will the results be shared publicly?
Results will be presented at the ESMO Annual Meeting from October 17 to 21, 2025, and will also be accessible on Transgene's website thereafter.
Who are the key companies involved?
The primary companies involved are Transgene and BioInvent, both focused on innovative cancer therapies.
How can I get in touch for more information?
Contact details for corporate communication are provided, including emails and phone numbers for representatives from both companies.
