1stOncology™: Cancer Intelligence Service – Page 116 – 1stOncology is recognized as a Top 10 Global Pharma Analytic Provider

ThalassaX Therapeutics Announces First Patient Dosed in U.S. Phase I Trial of CS231295, a Brain-Penetrant Aurora B Kinase Selective Inhibitor

On July 17, 2026 ThalassaX Therapeutics United States Ltd reported that the first patient has been successfully dosed in the U.S. Phase I clinical trial of CS231295, a next-generation brain-penetrant Aurora B Kinase selective inhibitor independently discovered and developed using the company’s core AI-powered + Chemogenomic technology platform.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

This study is an open-label, dose-escalation Phase I clinical trial in patients with advanced solid tumors, designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary antitumor activity of CS231295.

Dr. Xianping Lu, Chairman of ThalassaX Therapeutics United States Ltd, commented:

"The first patient in the U.S. has successfully received the initial dose of CS231295. We are grateful to the patients and clinical sites for their support. From the outset, the global development strategy for CS231295 has centered on parallel Sino‑U.S. IND submissions, targeting two of the most challenging solid-tumor settings: RB1‑deficient cancers and brain metastases. Launching clinical development in the United States—one of the world’s core markets for innovative oncology therapeutics—marks a milestone of deep strategic significance for our team."

He added that the company will continue to uphold rigorous scientific standards and advance each subsequent study with discipline and precision, generating robust clinical evidence that honors our commitments to patients and to science.

Malignant brain tumors and brain metastases remain among the most challenging settings in oncology. CS231295 was designed to address this unmet need through precise inhibition of tumor‑specific Aurora B overexpression, inducing synthetic lethality in genetically vulnerable tumors such as those with RB1 deficiency.

The molecule’s favorable blood–brain barrier penetration provides a meaningful therapeutic advantage for primary brain tumors and brain metastases. In addition, CS231295 demonstrates broad antitumor activity, including anti‑angiogenic effects and modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and shows potential for synergistic combinations with chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immuno‑oncology agents.

Preclinical studies have shown potent pharmacodynamic activity, favorable pharmacokinetics, and a good safety profile. No drug candidate with a similar design has yet entered global clinical trials.

CS231295 received IND approval from China’s NMPA in December 2024, with first‑in‑human dosing in China in May 2025. The program achieved FDA IND clearance in July 2025, enabling parallel Sino‑U.S. development. The first U.S. patient dosing marks another major step toward accelerating global clinical progress and informing subsequent study designs.

(Press release, Shenzhen Chipscreen Biosciences, JUL 17, 2026, View Source [SID1234669297])

Incyte Data to Be Highlighted in Four Rapid Oral Presentations at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2026 Support Efforts to Improve Outcomes in Difficult-to-Treat Cancers

On July 17, 2026 Incyte (Nasdaq:INCY) reported that it will highlight data from several programs in its oncology portfolio in six presentations at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) Congress 2026, being held October 23 – 27, 2026, in Madrid.

"The data at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) will further illustrate Incyte’s commitment to advancing innovation for patients with cancer," said Pablo J. Cagnoni, M.D., President, Incyte and Global Head of Research and Development. "Among the presentations are important updates from our KRAS G12D inhibitor in advanced pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer, our TGFβR2×PD-1 bispecific antibody in microsatellite stable colorectal cancer and our CDK2 inhibitor in recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer – investigational approaches that reflect our focus on areas where there is significant need for novel therapies."

Details on key data presentations at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) include:

Rapid Oral Presentations

INCB161734 (KRAS G12D)

Safety and Efficacy of Oral KRAS G12D Inhibitor INCB161734 as Monotherapy or in Combination with Cetuximab (Cetux) in Patients (pts) with Advanced/Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
(Session: Rapid Oral session. Sunday, October 25, 3:30-5:00 a.m. ET [8:30-10:00 a.m. CET]. Abstract #1007RO.)

Safety and Efficacy of INCB161734, a Novel Oral KRAS G12D Inhibitor, in Combination with Chemotherapy in Patients (pts) with Advanced/Metastatic Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
(Session: Rapid Oral session. Monday, October 26, 9:45-11:15 a.m. ET [2:45-4:15 p.m. CET]. Abstract #3137RO.)

INCA33890 (TGFβR2xPD-1)1

INCA33890, a TGFβR2xPD-1 Bispecific Antibody, with Standard of Care (SoC) Anticancer Therapies for Microsatellite Stable Colorectal Cancer (MSS CRC)
(Session: Rapid Oral session. Saturday, October 24, 2:30-4:00 a.m. ET [8:30-10:00 a.m. CET]. Abstract #1954RO.)

INCB123667 (CDK2)

Preliminary Efficacy of INCB123667 (CDK2 Inhibition) with Bevacizumab in Recurrent Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (rEOC)
(Session: Rapid Oral session. Friday, October 23, 10:15-11:45 a.m. ET [4:15-5:45 p.m. CET]. Abstract #1241RO.)

Poster Presentations

Retifanlimab

Final Survival Outcomes (OS) in POD1UM-303/InterAACT-2: a Phase 3 Study of Retifanlimab (R) + Carboplatin-Paclitaxel (CP) in First-Line (1L) Advanced Squamous Anal Cancer (SCAC)
(Session: Rectal and anal cancer. Sunday, October 25, 7:00-7:45 a.m. ET [12:00-12:45 p.m. CET]. Abstract #3536P.)

INCB123667 (CDK2)

A Phase 3, Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study of INCB123667 with Bevacizumab Versus Bevacizumab Alone as First-Line Maintenance Therapy for Advanced Epithelial Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, or Primary Peritoneal Cancer Overexpressing Cyclin E1 (MAESTRA 3; GOG-3146; ENGOT-OV106)
(Session: Gynaecological cancers. Monday, October 26, 7:00-7:45 a.m. ET [12:00-12:45 p.m. CET]. Abstract #1336TiP.)

(Press release, Incyte, JUL 17, 2026, View Source [SID1234669296])

ME Therapeutics Closes Over-Subscribed Private Placement

On July 17, 2026 ME Therapeutics Holdings Inc. ("ME Therapeutics" or the "Company") (CSE: METX) (FSE: Q9T), a publicly listed biotechnology company working on novel cancer fighting drugs that reprogram and redirect immune cells to fight cancer, is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement for aggregate proceeds of $576,500.60 (the "Financing").

Closing of the Financing

The Financing consisted of the issuance of 339,118 units of the Company (each a "Unit") at a price of $1.70 per Unit, with each Unit compromising one common share (a "Share’) and one non-transferrable common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one additional Share at an exercise price of $2.00 for three years from the date of issuance, subject to an acceleration clause whereby, if the volume weighted average price of the Shares is at or above $3.00 per Share for ten consecutive trading days, the Company may accelerate the expiry date upon 30 days’ notice (the "Acceleration Provision").

The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Financing towards advancing research and development, evaluating strategic transactions, pursuing a U.S. listing, marketing, investor relations expenditures, working capital requirements and for other general corporate purposes. The Shares and Warrants will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issuance.

The Financing constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), as certain related parties of the Company participated in the Financing. With respect to the Financing, John Priatel, a director of the Company, was issued 294,118 Units for an investment of $500,000.60.

Grant of Stock Options

The Company is pleased to announce that it has granted (the "Option Grant") an aggregate of 2,047,500 stock options (the "Options") to certain of its directors, officers, employees and consultants (the "Optionees") pursuant to the Company’s Share Compensation Plan (the "Plan"). The Options are each exercisable into one common share of the Company (each, an "Optioned Share") at an exercise price of C$1.99 per Optioned Share (the "Option Price"). Of the Options granted, an aggregate of 1,925,000 Options were granted to directors and officers, are exercisable for five years from the date of grant and vest immediately. The remaining 122,500 Options that were granted to consultants and employees are exercisable for three years from the date of grant and vest over 12 months from the date of grant with 25% of such Options vesting every three months following the date of grant. The Options shall be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, requirements of the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") and such additional terms and conditions as may be contained in the stock option agreements to be entered into between the Company and each of the Optionees.

Early Warning Disclosure – Acquisition by John Priatel

John Priatel, a director of the Company, acquired 294,118 Units pursuant to the Financing for aggregate consideration of $500,000.60 representing a price of $1.70 per Unit. John Priatel also received 250,000 Options on July 16, 2026 at the Option Price, which vest immediately upon grant. Immediately prior to closing of the Financing and the Option Grant, Mr. Priatel beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, 4,175,143 Common Shares, representing approximately 13.89% of the 30,049,438 issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Immediately following closing of the Financing and the Option Grant, Mr. Priatel beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 4,469,261 Common Shares, 294,118 Warrants, and 250,000 Options representing approximately 16.21% of the 30,932,674 issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all Options and Warrants into Common Shares. The Common Shares held by Mr. Priatel are held for investment purposes and were acquired for investment. Mr. Priatel may in the future take such actions in respect of its holdings in the Company as the acquiror may deem appropriate in light of the circumstances then existing, including the purchase of additional securities of the Company through open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions or the sale of all or a portion of the acquiror’s holdings in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions to one or more purchasers, subject in each case to applicable securities law.

(Press release, ME Therapeutics, JUL 17, 2026, View Source [SID1234669295])

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Announces Groundbreaking Research Collaboration to Improve Quality of Life for Metastatic Inflammatory Breast Cancer Patients

On July 17, 2026 Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), and the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation reported a collaborative research initiative uniting two comprehensive IBC clinics.

The collaborative research project will include patients from both Dana-Farber and the OSUCCC – James, to focus on identifying critical information to address the unique challenges posed by metastatic IBC. By combining the clinical and research capabilities of institutes with the patient-centric funding focus of IBCRF, this initiative will drive progress in improving the quality of life for patients affected by this devastating condition.

"This collaboration represents a remarkable opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients with metastatic IBC," said Dr. Faina Nakhlis of Dana-Farber. "By bringing together bright minds and the most advanced resources, we are confident that this research will yield insights that will empower patients to make informed decisions about their treatment and ultimately improve their quality of life."

The research will take a multifaceted approach, including:

Conducting a prospective study to evaluate the quality of life in patients with metastatic IBC, focusing on factors such as lymphedema, skin toxicity, and therapeutic decision regret.
Exploring considerations regarding local therapy (modified radical mastectomy and comprehensive chest wall and regional lymph node radiation therapy).
Engaging patients and families in the research process to ensure their perspectives and needs are at the forefront, as they make shared decisions with their physicians.
"We are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking collaboration," said Dr. Daniel Stover of the OSUCCC – James. "By leveraging our expertise in cancer research and clinical care – and working together as a team dedicated to targeting IBC – we believe we can make significant strides in addressing the unmet needs of patients with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer."

Ginny Mason, Executive Director of The Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation, said, "This collaboration represents a critical step forward in our mission to improve the lives of those affected by IBC. We are providing funding to help bring these two leading IBC clinics together in a way that might not have been possible otherwise."

(Press release, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, JUL 17, 2026, View Source [SID1234669294])

Bayer and Henry Ford Health Announce Strategic Research Partnership to Expand Patient Access to Clinical Trials

On July 17, 2026 Bayer, a global life sciences company, and Henry Ford Health reported a strategic partnership to expand clinical trial opportunities for patients. The work brings together Bayer’s global drug development expertise with Henry Ford Health’s comprehensive clinical research program and its deep connection to the communities it serves.

"Clinical trials are often the first opportunity patients have to access cutting-edge treatments," said Dr. David Lanfear, Chief Scientific Officer for Henry Ford Health. "Through this collaboration, we aim to make clinical research more accessible, reduce barriers to participation, accelerate the development of new treatments and ensure that more patients have the opportunity to benefit from medical innovation."

Initial efforts will focus on several key areas that align with Bayer’s growing pipeline and product offerings:

Cardiovascular and renal disease, including thrombosis, heart failure, stroke, and chronic kidney disease
Oncology, including advanced cancers and targeted therapies
Women’s health, including treatments for menopausal symptoms and gynecologic conditions
Together, the organizations will collaboratively work across the full clinical trial process, using data and technology to design smarter trials. Patients will be able to access novel treatments sooner by reducing barriers to participation.

"Bayer is consistently exploring new avenues that can help more patients with diseases or health conditions that impact millions of people across the world," said Christoph Koenen, Head, Clinical Development & Operations for Bayer. "We share this commitment to patients and advancing drug discovery with likeminded institutions like Henry Ford Health that can help reduce barriers to accessing investigational or potential new treatments right in the very communities where patients are already receiving their care."

The partnership will add more areas of medicinal research as time goes on. Beyond clinical trials, the organizations plan to work together in areas such as:

Using AI, analytics, and electronic health record data to improve trial design and patient identification
Generating real-world evidence to better understand how treatments perform
Supporting training and innovation in healthcare data science
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing clinical research in ways that are faster, more inclusive, and more accessible for patients.

Henry Ford Health is one of only four academic health systems in the U.S. selected to work with Bayer in this strategic research model, reflecting its clinical expertise, integrated care network, diverse patient population and strong track record in clinical research. In July, Bayer announced its first strategic alliance with the University of Colorado Anschutz, UCHealth and Children’s Hospital Colorado to advance drug development and clinical trials.

"This partnership builds on Henry Ford Health’s longstanding leadership in clinical research and creates new opportunities to bring innovative studies to our patients," Lanfear said. "By combining our expertise with Bayer’s global research capabilities, we can help advance treatments in areas that matter most while ensuring research reflects the needs of the diverse communities we serve."

(Press release, Bayer, JUL 17, 2026, View Source [SID1234669293])