Merck KGaA, a science and technology leader, is expanding its oncology pipeline with promising new treatments. The company plans to initiate Phase Ib and II studies for tuvusertib and M9466, novel DNA damage response (DDR) inhibitors.
Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
M9140, Merck KGaA’s lead ADC, has progressed to Phase Ib after showing promising clinical results. The company aims to explore its use in additional tumor types. M3554, another ADC based on the company’s exatecan-payload platform, is set to enter clinical development.
DDR Inhibitors
Merck KGaA’s portfolio of DDR inhibitors targets core cancer mechanisms. Tuvusertib, M9466, lartesertib, and several other investigational medicines are being tested in clinical trials.
Combination Therapies
Data from DDRiver 301 Part B supports combining tuvusertib with the PARP inhibitor niraparib. The company is also investigating combinations of tuvusertib and lartesertib.
M9466 Development
Clinical data for M9466 demonstrate its favorable safety profile and efficacy in PARP-naïve tumors. Merck KGaA plans to develop this medicine further in various combination therapies.
Research Pipeline
Beyond its clinical pipeline, Merck KGaA is conducting preclinical research in ADCs, DDR inhibitors, immuno-oncology compounds, and oncogenic signaling assets. These programs enhance the company’s ability to deliver innovative cancer treatments.
Driving Oncology Innovation
Danny Bar-Zohar, Global Head of Research and Development and Chief Medical Officer for Merck KGaA, emphasizes the company’s commitment to advancing oncology research. The company’s focus on DDR inhibitors, ADCs, and combination therapies aims to improve the lives of people facing cancer.
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.