MiNK Therapeutics announced a presentation at the ASCO GI Symposium detailing a Phase 2 trial of its iNKT cell therapy, agenT-797, combined with Agenus’ botensilimab/balstilimab, ramucirumab, and paclitaxel in patients with previously treated gastroesophageal cancers. The trial builds on earlier Phase 1 data showing promising responses and tolerability in various cancers, particularly gastric cancer. This ongoing Phase 2 trial, conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, specifically focuses on advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma patients.
This research is crucial for advancing the treatment of gastroesophageal cancers, which often have poor prognoses, especially in later stages. The multi-immunologic approach, combining iNKT cell therapy with checkpoint inhibitors and standard chemotherapy, represents a potential paradigm shift in treatment. Exploring this novel combination could unlock new therapeutic avenues for patients who have exhausted existing options, potentially offering improved outcomes and extending survival.
The Phase 2 trial investigates a complex regimen of agenT-797 with botensilimab, balstilimab, ramucirumab, and paclitaxel. Prior Phase 1 data demonstrated durable responses in several cancer types, including gastric cancer, with observed T cell infiltration and expansion in responding patients. MiNK anticipates releasing further clinical updates from the ongoing Phase 2 study in the second half of 2025.
The development of this multi-immunologic combination therapy could significantly impact the landscape of gastroesophageal cancer treatment. Positive results from the Phase 2 trial could lead to accelerated clinical development, potentially offering a much-needed new treatment option for patients with advanced disease. Further, it could establish MiNK Therapeutics as a leader in iNKT cell therapy and solidify the potential of this approach for other cancer types.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
