Coherus BioSciences announced final data from its Phase 2 trial of casdozokitug (casdozo), an IL-27-targeting antibody, combined with atezolizumab and bevacizumab in patients with advanced liver cancer (HCC). The final data shows a higher overall response rate (ORR) of 38% and a complete response rate of 17.2%, significantly improved from earlier reported figures. The positive results were observed in both viral and non-viral HCC, with a manageable safety profile.
These findings are a notable advancement in HCC treatment, where options, especially for advanced stages, remain limited. The improved ORR and CR rates, coupled with the drug’s activity across different HCC etiologies, suggest casdozo could become a valuable therapeutic option, potentially improving long-term outcomes for a broader patient population. This is particularly important given the high mortality rate associated with HCC and the limitations of existing therapies.
The Phase 2 trial data revealed a 38% ORR with 5 complete and 6 partial responses based on RECIST v1.1 criteria. Using mRECIST criteria, the ORR was 43% with 5 complete and 7 partial responses. Median progression-free survival was approximately 8 months under both criteria. Importantly, biomarker data corroborated the preclinical findings, showing inhibition of IL-27 signaling and immune activation. Based on these positive results, Coherus launched a new randomized Phase 2 trial evaluating casdozo in combination with bevacizumab and toripalimab, its anti-PD-1 antibody. This trial will include approximately 72 patients and will investigate two different casdozo dosages alongside the other therapies.
The promising results from the Phase 2 trial combined with the initiation of a new trial involving a PD-1 inhibitor signal a potential shift in the HCC treatment landscape. The enhanced efficacy and acceptable safety profile observed with casdozo suggest it could become a cornerstone in future HCC combination therapies, offering new hope for patients with this aggressive cancer. Further research will clarify the optimal dosing and combination strategies for casdozo, potentially leading to improved survival rates and quality of life for individuals battling HCC.
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.
