ASCO 2026: Bayer to Present New Data Across Oncology Portfolio

On May 21, 2026 Bayer reported that new data from studies across their oncology portfolio will be presented at the upcoming 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, taking place in Chicago from May 29–June 2. In total, 16 abstracts will be presented spanning multiple cancer types, including prostate cancers, breast cancer, lung cancers, salivary gland cancer, renal cell carcinoma and colorectal cancers, further supporting Bayer’s commitment to the research of treatments for cancers and encouraging scientific exchange.

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Primary results from the Phase II ARACOG (AFT-47) head-to-head trial evaluating NUBEQA (darolutamide) versus enzalutamide in men with metastatic and non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) or metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) will be presented as an oral abstract and are additionally featured in the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2026 Annual Meeting Press Program. Data from a subgroup post-hoc analysis of the investigational Phase III ARANOTE trial investigating prostate-specific antigen outcomes of NUBEQA plus androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCSPC) will also be presented.

NUBEQA is indicated in the U.S. for the treatment of adult patients with mCSPC, with and without docetaxel, and for the treatment of adult patients with non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC).1

Presentations will also highlight data from two trials investigating the safety and efficacy of XOFIGO (radium-223 dichloride). Results from the Phase II RADICAL IR-US (Alliance A031801) randomized trial evaluating XOFIGO plus cabozantinib in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with bone metastases (BM) will be presented as an oral abstract session. Data from the Phase II ETCTN 10302 trial investigating XOFIGO in combination with paclitaxel in patients with metastatic breast cancer will be presented as a poster session.

XOFIGO is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease.2 XOFIGO is not approved in this investigational indication in combination with enzalutamide.

Details on selected abstracts from Bayer at the 2026 ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting follow:

NUBEQA (darolutamide)

Cognitive effects of darolutamide vs enzalutamide: Results of ARACOG (AFT-47), a randomized clinical trial from the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology
Abstract: 5005; May 30, 4:24 p.m.–4:36 p.m. CDT
Prostate-specific antigen outcomes of darolutamide and androgen deprivation therapy in patient subgroups by age, comorbidities, and concomitant medications: ARANOTE post hoc analyses
Abstract: 5103; May 31, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CDT
XOFIGO (radium-223 dichloride)

A phase 2 randomized trial of radium-223 dichloride and cabozantinib in patients (pts) with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with bone metastases (BM): RADICAL (Alliance A031801)
Abstract: 4500; May 29, 2:45 p.m.–2:57 p.m. CDT
ETCTN 10302: A randomized phase II trial of radium-223 dichloride in combination with paclitaxel in patients with bone metastatic breast cancer
Abstract: 3096; May 30, 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. CDT
HYRNUO (sevabertinib)

SOHO-01: Updated safety and efficacy of sevabertinib in patients with advanced HER2-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Abstract: 8622; May 31, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CDT
VITRAKVI (larotrectinib)

Efficacy and safety of larotrectinib in patients with non-primary central nervous system TRK fusion cancer: An updated analysis
Abstract: 3145; May 30, 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. CDT
Precision oncology in practice: Real-world multicenter experience with larotrectinib in pediatric extracranial NTRK fusion–positive tumors
Abstract: 10036; June 1, 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. CDT
STIVARGA (regorafenib)

Evaluation of the combination of regorafenib + avelumab in patients with HPV-associated cancer: The phase II REGOMUNE study
Abstract: 2517; May 30, 8:42 a.m.-8:48 a.m. CDT
About NUBEQA (darolutamide)1

NUBEQA (darolutamide) is an androgen receptor inhibitor (ARi) with a distinct chemical structure that competitively inhibits androgen binding, AR nuclear translocation, and AR-mediated transcription.

NUBEQA was developed jointly by Bayer and Orion Corporation, a globally operating Finnish pharmaceutical company.

NUBEQA is an androgen receptor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of adult patients with:

Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC)
Metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC)
Metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) in combination with docetaxel
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Warnings & Precautions

Ischemic Heart Disease – Ischemic heart disease, including fatal cases, occurred in patients receiving NUBEQA.

In a pooled analysis of ARAMIS and ARANOTE, ischemic heart disease occurred in 3.4% of patients receiving NUBEQA and 2.2% receiving placebo, including Grade 3-4 events in 1.4% and 0.3%, respectively. Ischemic events led to death in 0.4% of patients receiving NUBEQA and 0.4% receiving placebo.

In ARASENS, ischemic heart disease occurred in 3.2% of patients receiving NUBEQA with docetaxel and 2% receiving placebo with docetaxel, including Grade 3-4 events in 1.3% and 1.1%, respectively. Ischemic events led to death in 0.3% of patients receiving NUBEQA with docetaxel and 0% receiving placebo with docetaxel.

Monitor for signs and symptoms of ischemic heart disease. Optimize management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. Discontinue NUBEQA for Grade 3-4 ischemic heart disease.

Seizure – Seizure occurred in patients receiving NUBEQA.

In a pooled analysis of ARAMIS and ARANOTE, Grade 1-3 seizure occurred in 0.2% of patients receiving NUBEQA. Seizure occurred from 261 to 665 days after initiation of NUBEQA.

In ARASENS, seizure occurred in 0.8% of patients receiving NUBEQA with docetaxel, including two Grade 3 events. Seizure occurred from 38 to 1754 days after initiation of NUBEQA.

It is unknown whether anti-epileptic medications will prevent seizures with NUBEQA. Advise patients of the risk of developing a seizure while receiving NUBEQA and of engaging in any activity where sudden loss of consciousness could cause harm to themselves or others. Consider discontinuation of NUBEQA in patients who develop a seizure during treatment.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity – The safety and efficacy of NUBEQA have not been established in females. NUBEQA can cause fetal harm and loss of pregnancy. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with NUBEQA and for 1 week after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

In ARAMIS, serious adverse reactions occurred in 25% of patients receiving NUBEQA and in 20% of patients receiving placebo. Serious adverse reactions in ≥1% of patients who received NUBEQA included urinary retention, pneumonia, and hematuria. Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 3.9% of patients receiving NUBEQA and 3.2% of patients receiving placebo. Fatal adverse reactions that occurred in ≥2 patients who received NUBEQA included death (0.4%), cardiac failure (0.3%), cardiac arrest (0.2%), general physical health deterioration (0.2%), and pulmonary embolism (0.2%). The most common (>2% with a ≥2% increase compared to placebo) adverse reactions, including laboratory test abnormalities, were increased AST (23%), decreased neutrophil count (20%), fatigue (16%), increased bilirubin (16%), pain in extremity (6%), and rash (4%). Clinically relevant adverse reactions occurring in 2% or more of patients treated with NUBEQA included ischemic heart disease (4%) and heart failure (2.1%).

In ARANOTE, serious adverse reactions occurred in 24% of patients receiving NUBEQA. Serious adverse reactions in ≥1% of patients who received NUBEQA included pneumonia (2%), urinary tract infection (1.8%), musculoskeletal pain (1.6%), hemorrhage (1.6%), arrhythmias (1.3%), and spinal cord compression (1.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 4.7% of patients receiving NUBEQA and those that occurred in ≥2 patients included sepsis (1.1%), craniocerebral injury (0.4%), and myocardial infarction (0.4%). The most common (≥10% with a ≥2% increase compared to placebo) adverse reaction is urinary tract infection (12%). The most common laboratory test abnormalities (≥15% with a ≥5% increase over placebo) are increased AST (32%), increased ALT (28%), increased bilirubin (17%), and decreased neutrophil count (16%). Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received NUBEQA included arrhythmia (8.8%), pneumonia (3.6%), and myocardial infarction (0.7%).

In ARASENS, serious adverse reactions occurred in 45% of patients receiving NUBEQA with docetaxel. Serious adverse reactions in ≥2% of patients who received NUBEQA with docetaxel included febrile neutropenia (6%), neutrophil count decreased (2.8%), musculoskeletal pain (2.6%) and pneumonia (2.6%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 4% of patients receiving NUBEQA with docetaxel. Fatal adverse reactions in ≥2 patients who received NUBEQA included COVID-19/COVID-19 pneumonia (0.8%), myocardial infarction (0.3%), and sudden death (0.3%). The most common (≥10% with a ≥2% increase over placebo with docetaxel) adverse reactions are constipation (23%), rash (20%), decreased appetite (19%), hemorrhage (18%), increased weight (18%), and hypertension (14%). The most common laboratory test abnormalities (≥30%) are anemia (72%), hyperglycemia (57%), decreased lymphocyte count (52%), decreased neutrophil count (49%), increased AST (40%), increased ALT (37%), and hypocalcemia (31%). Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received NUBEQA with docetaxel included fractures (8%), ischemic heart disease (3.2%), seizures (0.6%), and drug-induced liver injury (0.3%).

Drug Interactions

Effect of Other Drugs on NUBEQA – Concomitant use of NUBEQA with a combined P-gp and strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducer decreases darolutamide exposure which may decrease NUBEQA activity. Avoid concomitant use of NUBEQA with combined P-gp and strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers.

Concomitant use of NUBEQA with a combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increases darolutamide exposure which may increase the risk of NUBEQA adverse reactions. Monitor patients more frequently for NUBEQA adverse reactions and modify NUBEQA dosage as needed.

Effects of NUBEQA on Other Drugs – NUBEQA is an inhibitor of BCRP transporter. Concomitant use of NUBEQA increases the AUC and Cmax of BCRP substrates, which may increase the risk of BCRP substrate-related toxicities. Avoid concomitant use with drugs that are BCRP substrates where possible. If used together, monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions, and consider dose reduction of the BCRP substrate drug.

NUBEQA is an inhibitor of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 transporters. Concomitant use of NUBEQA may increase the plasma concentrations of OATP1B1 or OATP1B3 substrates. Monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions of these drugs and consider dose reduction while patients are taking NUBEQA.

Review the Prescribing Information of drugs that are BCRP, OATP1B1, and OATP1B3 substrates when used concomitantly with NUBEQA.

For important risk and use information about NUBEQA, please see the accompanying full Prescribing Information.

Please see the full Prescribing Information.

About XOFIGO (radium-223 dichloride) Injection2

XOFIGO is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease.

Important Safety Information for XOFIGO (radium-223 dichloride) Injection

Warnings and Precautions:

Bone Marrow Suppression: In the phase 3 ALSYMPCA trial, 2% of patients in the
XOFIGO arm experienced bone marrow failure or ongoing pancytopenia, compared to no patients treated with placebo. There were two deaths due to bone marrow failure. For 7 of 13 patients treated with XOFIGO bone marrow failure was ongoing at the time of death. Among the 13 patients who experienced bone marrow failure, 54% required blood transfusions. Four percent (4%) of patients in the XOFIGO arm and 2% in the placebo arm permanently discontinued therapy due to bone marrow suppression. In the randomized trial, deaths related to vascular hemorrhage in association with myelosuppression were observed in 1% of XOFIGO-treated patients compared to 0.3% of patients treated with placebo. The incidence of infection-related deaths (2%), serious infections (10%), and febrile neutropenia (<1%) was similar for patients treated with XOFIGO and placebo. Myelosuppression–notably thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, and leukopenia–has been reported in patients treated with XOFIGO.
Monitor patients with evidence of compromised bone marrow reserve closely and provide supportive care measures when clinically indicated. Discontinue XOFIGO in patients who experience life-threatening complications despite supportive care for bone marrow failure

Hematological Evaluation: Monitor blood counts at baseline and prior to every dose of XOFIGO. Prior to first administering XOFIGO, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be ≥1.5 × 109/L, the platelet count ≥100 × 109/L, and hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL. Prior to subsequent administrations, the ANC should be ≥1 × 109/L and the platelet count ≥50 × 109/L. Discontinue XOFIGO if hematologic values do not recover within 6 to 8 weeks after the last administration despite receiving supportive care
Concomitant Use With Chemotherapy: Safety and efficacy of concomitant
chemotherapy with XOFIGO have not been established. Outside of a clinical trial,
concomitant use of XOFIGO in patients on chemotherapy is not recommended due to the potential for additive myelosuppression. If chemotherapy, other systemic radioisotopes, or hemibody external radiotherapy are administered during the treatment period, XOFIGO should be discontinued
Increased Fractures and Mortality in Combination With Abiraterone Plus Prednisone/Prednisolone: XOFIGO is not recommended for use in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone outside of clinical trials. At the primary analysis of the Phase 3 ERA-223 study that evaluated concurrent initiation of XOFIGO in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone in 806 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic mCRPC patients, an increased incidence of fractures (28.6% vs 11.4%) and deaths (38.5% vs 35.5%) have been observed in patients who received XOFIGO in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone compared to patients who received placebo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone. Safety and efficacy with the combination of XOFIGO and agents other than gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have not been established
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: The safety and efficacy of XOFIGO have not been established in females. XOFIGO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female. Advise pregnant females and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise male patients to use condoms and their female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during and for 6 months after completing treatment with XOFIGO
Administration and Radiation Protection: XOFIGO should be received, used, and administered only by authorized persons in designated clinical settings. The administration of XOFIGO is associated with potential risks to other persons from radiation or contamination from spills of bodily fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit. Therefore, radiation protection precautions must be taken in accordance with national and local regulations

Fluid Status: Dehydration occurred in 3% of patients on XOFIGO and 1% of patients on

placebo. XOFIGO increases adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which may result in dehydration. Monitor patients’ oral intake and fluid status carefully and promptly treat patients who display signs or symptoms of dehydration or hypovolemia

Injection Site Reactions: Erythema, pain, and edema at the injection site were reported in 1% of patients on XOFIGO

Secondary Malignant Neoplasms: XOFIGO contributes to a patient’s overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure. Long-term cumulative radiation exposure may be associated with an increased risk of cancer and hereditary defects. Due to its mechanism of action and neoplastic changes, including osteosarcomas, in rats following administration of radium-223 dichloride, XOFIGO may increase the risk of osteosarcoma or other secondary malignant neoplasms. However, the overall incidence of new malignancies in the randomized trial was lower on the XOFIGO arm compared to placebo (<1% vs 2%; respectively), but the expected latency period for the development of secondary malignancies exceeds the duration of follow-up for patients on the trial

Subsequent Treatment With Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: In the randomized clinical trial, 16% of patients in the XOFIGO group and 18% of patients in the placebo group received cytotoxic chemotherapy after completion of study treatments. Adequate safety monitoring and laboratory testing was not performed to assess how patients treated with XOFIGO will tolerate subsequent cytotoxic chemotherapy

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in the XOFIGO arm vs the placebo arm, respectively, were nausea (36% vs 35%), diarrhea (25% vs 15%), vomiting (19% vs 14%), and peripheral edema (13% vs 10%). Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were reported in 57% of XOFIGO-treated patients and 63% of placebo-treated patients. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities in the XOFIGO arm (≥10%) vs the placebo arm, respectively, were anemia (93% vs 88%), lymphocytopenia (72% vs 53%), leukopenia (35% vs 10%), thrombocytopenia (31% vs 22%), and neutropenia (18% vs 5%).

Please see the full Prescribing Information for XOFIGO (radium Ra 223 dichloride).

About HYRNUO (sevabertinib)3

HYRNUO is a kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have HER2 (ERBB2) tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) activating mutations, as detected by an FDA-approved test, and who have received a prior systemic therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on objective response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DOR). Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Warnings & Precautions

Diarrhea

HYRNUO can cause severe diarrhea that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

In the pooled safety population, diarrhea was reported in 86% of patients who received HYRNUO including Grade 3 in 15%. The median time to first onset of any grade diarrhea was four days. Dosage interruptions occurred in 15% of patients, and dose reductions occurred in 12% of patients.

At the first sign of diarrhea or increased bowel movement frequency, instruct patients to start an antidiarrheal treatment (e.g., loperamide), and to increase their fluid and electrolyte intake. Interrupt, reduce the dose or permanently discontinue HYRNUO based on severity.

Hepatotoxicity

HYRNUO can cause severe hepatotoxicity characterized by elevations of liver function tests.

In the pooled safety population, based on adverse reaction data, hepatotoxicity occurred in 24% of patients treated with HYRNUO including 3% Grade 3. Based on laboratory data, 35% of patients treated with HYRNUO experienced increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), including 2.3% Grade 3. Increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) occurred in 35% of patients treated with HYRNUO, including 2.3% Grade 3. Increased bilirubin occurred in 12% of patients treated with HYRNUO. The median time to first onset of AST or ALT elevation was 1.4 (range 0.2 to 14.5) months. HYRNUO was interrupted for an adverse reaction of hepatotoxicity in 4.1% of patients, the dose was reduced in 4.1% and permanently discontinued in 0.4%.

Monitor liver function tests including ALT, AST, and total bilirubin at baseline prior to the first administration of HYRNUO, every 2 weeks for the first month and then monthly thereafter as clinically indicated, with more frequent testing in patients who develop transaminase elevations. Interrupt, reduce the dose or permanently discontinue HYRNUO based on the severity of the adverse reaction.

Interstitial Lung Disease/Pneumonitis

HYRNUO can cause severe interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis. In the pooled safety population, ILD/pneumonitis occurred in two patients (0.7%) treated with HYRNUO, including 0.4% Grade 3. One patient required interruption of HYRNUO.

Monitor patients for new or worsening symptoms indicative of ILD/pneumonitis (e.g., dyspnea, cough, fever). Discontinue HYRNUO upon confirmation of ILD/pneumonitis.

Ocular Toxicity

HYRNUO can cause ocular toxicity.

In the pooled safety population, ocular toxicity occurred in 14% of patients treated with HYRNUO, including 11% Grade 1, 2.6% Grade 2 and 0.4% Grade 3 (one case of corneal epithelial microcysts with temporary unilateral blindness).

Promptly refer patients presenting with new or worsening eye symptoms to an ophthalmologist. Interrupt, reduce the dose or permanently discontinue HYRNUO based on severity.

Pancreatic Enzyme Elevation

HYRNUO can cause elevations of amylase and lipase levels. In the pooled safety population, based on laboratory data, increased amylase occurred in 32% of patients treated with HYRNUO, including 3.2% Grade 3 or 4. Increased lipase elevation occurred in 40% of patients treated with HYRNUO, including 10% Grade 3 or 4. Two patients (0.7%) required interruption of HYRNUO due to increased lipase and three (1.1%) required interruption of HYRNUO due to increased amylase. The median time to onset of increased amylase/lipase was 1.4 months (range: 0.2 to 17 months).

Monitor amylase and lipase regularly during treatment with HYRNUO. Interrupt, reduce the dose or permanently discontinue HYRNUO based on severity.

Embryo-fetal toxicity

Based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action, HYRNUO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. In embryo-fetal development studies, oral administration of sevabertinib to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis resulted in alterations to growth at maternal exposures ≥0.18 times the human exposure based on area under the curve (AUC) at the clinical dose of 20 mg twice daily. Animal studies with disrupted or depleted HER2/EGFR and in vitro assays have demonstrated that inhibition of HER2 and/or EGFR results in structural abnormalities, alteration to growth, and embryo-fetal and infant mortality.

Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with HYRNUO and for 1 week after the last dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with HYRNUO and for 1 week after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

In SOHO-01 (Groups D and E), serious adverse reactions occurred in 31% of patients who received HYRNUO. Serious adverse reactions in ≥2% of patients were diarrhea (6%), pneumonia (3.7%), dyspnea (2.2%), and pleural effusion (2.2%). The most common adverse reactions (>20%) in patients who received HYRNUO were diarrhea (87%), rash (66%), paronychia (33%), stomatitis (29%), and nausea (21%). The most common Grade 3 and 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥2%) were potassium decreased (13%), lipase increased (12%), lymphocyte count decreased (6%), sodium decreased (4.4%), amylase increased (3.8%), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) increased (3%), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) increased (3%). Laboratory abnormalities in <20% of patients who received HYRNUO include blood bilirubin increased (14%; all were Grades 1 or 2). Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received HYRNUO included edema (8%), cardiac arrhythmia (6%; includes arrhythmia, atrioventricular block complete, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, sinus bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, supraventricular extrasystoles, supraventricular tachycardia, tachycardia) and alopecia (3.7%).

Drug Interactions

Effects of Other Drugs on HYRNUO – Sevabertinib is a CYP3A substrate. Concomitant use with a strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitor may increase sevabertinib plasma concentrations, which may increase the risk of HYRNUO adverse reactions. Monitor patients for increased HYRNUO-associated adverse reactions with moderate CYP3A inhibitors. Avoid concomitant use of HYRNUO with strong CYP3A inhibitors. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, reduce HYRNUO dose.

Concomitant use with a strong or moderate CYP3A inducer may decrease sevabertinib plasma concentrations, which may decrease the effectiveness of HYRNUO. Avoid concomitant use of HYRNUO with strong or moderate CYP3A inducers.

Effects of HYRNUO on Other Drugs – Sevabertinib is a weak to moderate CYP3A inhibitor. Sevabertinib increases exposure of CYP3A substrates, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to these substrates. Avoid concomitant use of HYRNUO with CYP3A substrates where minimal increases in the concentration may lead to serious adverse reactions unless otherwise recommended in the Prescribing Information of the CYP3A substrate.

Sevabertinib is a P-gp inhibitor. Sevabertinib increases exposure of P-gp substrates, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to these substrates. Refer to the Prescribing Information for P-gp substrates where minimal increases in the concentration may lead to serious adverse reactions.

Sevabertinib is an inhibitor of CYP1A1 in vitro. Sevabertinib may increase exposure of CYP1A1 substrates, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to these substrates. Refer to the Prescribing Information of CYP1A1 substrates.

Please see full Prescribing Information.

About VITRAKVI (larotrectinib)4

VITRAKVI is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with solid tumors that:

have a neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) gene fusion without a known acquired resistance mutation
are metastatic or where surgical resection is likely to result in severe morbidity, and
have no satisfactory alternative treatments or that have progressed following treatment.
Select patients for therapy based on an FDA-approved test.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Warnings and Precautions

Central Nervous System Effects: Central nervous system (CNS) adverse reactions occurred in patients receiving VITRAKVI, including dizziness, cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances.
In patients who received VITRAKVI, all grades CNS effects including cognitive impairment, mood disorders, dizziness and sleep disorders were observed in 40.3% with Grades 3-4 in 3.8% of patients.

Cognitive impairment occurred in 11% of patients. The median time to onset of cognitive impairment was 6 months (range: 2 days to 56 months). Cognitive impairment occurring in ≥ 1% of patients included memory impairment (4.1%), disturbance in attention (3.6%), confusional state (2.3%), cognitive disorder (1.6%), delirium (1.4%), and hallucination (1.1%). Grade 3 cognitive adverse reactions occurred in 1.8% of patients and Grade 4 cognitive adverse reactions in 0.2% of patients. Among the 49 patients with cognitive impairment, 6% required a dose modification and 18% required dose interruption.

Mood disorders occurred in 14% of patients. The median time to onset of mood disorders was 3.3 months (range: 1 day to 65 months). Mood disorders occurring in ≥1% of patients included anxiety (5%), agitation (3.2%), depression (3.2%), irritability (2.3%), and restlessness (1.1%). Grade 3 mood disorders occurred in 0.9% of patients. Among the 63 patients who experienced mood disorders, no patient required a dose modification, and 1.6% required dose interruption.

Dizziness occurred in 22% of patients, and Grade 3 dizziness occurred in 0.9% of patients. Among the 96 patients who experienced dizziness, 6% of patients required a dose modification and 5% required dose interruption.

Sleep disturbances occurred in 12% of patients. Sleep disturbances included insomnia (9%), somnolence (3.4%), and sleep disorder (0.5%). Grade 3 sleep disturbances occurred in 0.2% of patients. Among the 54 patients who experienced sleep disturbances, no patient required a dose modification and 3.7% required dose interruption.

Advise patients and caretakers of these risks with VITRAKVI. Advise patients not to drive or operate hazardous machinery if they are experiencing neurologic adverse reactions. Withhold or permanently discontinue VITRAKVI based on the severity. If withheld, modify the VITRAKVI dosage when resumed.

Skeletal Fractures: Skeletal fractures can occur in patients taking VITRAKVI.
Among 444 patients who received VITRAKVI across clinical trials, fractures occurred in 7% of patients; 6% of 290 adult patients and 10% of 154 pediatric patients. Median time to first fracture was 13 months (range 27 days to 73 months) in patients followed per fracture. The most common fractures were of the rib (1.4%), fibula, foot or wrist (0.7% each). Most fractures were associated with minimal or moderate trauma. Some fractures were associated with radiologic abnormalities suggestive of local tumor involvement. VITRAKVI treatment was interrupted due to fracture in 1.4% patients.

Promptly evaluate patients with signs or symptoms of potential fracture (e.g., pain, changes in mobility, deformity). There are no data on the effects of VITRAKVI on healing of known fractures or risk of future fractures.

Hepatotoxicity: Hepatotoxicity including drug induced liver injury (DILI) has occurred in patients taking VITRAKVI.
In patients who received VITRAKVI (n=444), increased AST of any grade occurred in 62% of patients and increased ALT of any grade occurred in 61%. Grade 3-4 increased AST or ALT occurred in 7% and 8% of patients, respectively. The median time to onset of increased AST was 1.9 months (range: 4 days to 3.8 years). The median time to onset of increased ALT was 1.9 months (range: 1 day to 4.9 years). Increased AST and ALT leading to dose modifications occurred in 1.6% and 3.2% of patients, respectively. Increased AST or ALT led to permanent discontinuation in 4 (0.9%) patients.

There have been reports from clinical studies and postmarketing cases of Grade ≥ 2 increases in ALT and/or AST with increases in bilirubin ≥ 2 x ULN.

Obtain liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin) before initiation of VITRAKVI and monitor every 2 weeks during the first 2 months of treatment, then monthly thereafter, or more frequently following the occurrence of Grade 2 or greater AST or ALT elevation. Temporarily withhold, reduce the dose, or permanently discontinue VITRAKVI based on severity.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: VITRAKVI can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Larotrectinib resulted in malformations in rats and rabbits at maternal exposures that were approximately 11- and 0.7-times, respectively, those observed at the clinical dose of 100 mg twice daily. Advise women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use an effective method of contraception during treatment and for 1 week after the last dose of VITRAKVI.
Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (≥20%), including laboratory abnormalities, were: increased AST (62%), increased ALT (61%), anemia (45%), hypoalbuminemia (44%), musculoskeletal pain (41%), increased alkaline phosphatase (40%), leukopenia (37%), lymphopenia (35%), neutropenia (34%), hypocalcemia (32%), fatigue (31%), vomiting (30%), cough (29%), constipation (27%), pyrexia (26%), diarrhea (26%), nausea (25%), abdominal pain (24%), dizziness (22%), and rash (21%).
Drug Interactions

Avoid coadministration of VITRAKVI with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (including grapefruit or grapefruit juice), strong CYP3A4 inducers (including St. John’s wort), or sensitive CYP3A4 substrates. If coadministration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers cannot be avoided, modify the VITRAKVI dose as recommended. If coadministration of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates cannot be avoided, monitor patients for increased adverse reactions of these drugs. For coadministration with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, monitor for adverse reactions more frequently and reduce the dosage based on severity. For coadministration with moderate CYP3A4 inducers, modify dose as recommended.
Use in Specific Populations

Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with VITRAKVI and for 1 week after the last dose.
For important risk and use information about VITRAKVI, please see the full Prescribing Information.

About STIVARGA (regorafenib)5

STIVARGA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) who have been previously treated with fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-based chemotherapy, an anti-VEGF therapy, and, if RAS wild-type, an anti-EGFR therapy.

STIVARGA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) who have been previously treated with imatinib mesylate and sunitinib malate.

STIVARGA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: HEPATOTOXICITY

Severe and sometimes fatal hepatotoxicity has occurred in clinical trials.
Monitor hepatic function prior to and during treatment.
Interrupt and then reduce or discontinue STIVARGA for hepatotoxicity as manifested by elevated liver function tests or hepatocellular necrosis, depending upon severity and persistence.
Hepatotoxicity: Severe drug-induced liver injury with fatal outcome occurred in STIVARGA-treated patients in clinical trials. In most cases, liver dysfunction occurred within the first 2 months of therapy and was characterized by a hepatocellular pattern of injury. Additionally, hyperammonemic encephalopathy, including fatal cases, has been reported in the postmarketing setting in patients treated with STIVARGA. The risk of hyperammonemic encephalopathy appears increased in patients with liver dysfunction, liver metastases, or primary liver cancer.

In the metastatic CRC study, fatal hepatic failure occurred in 1.6% of patients in the regorafenib arm and in 0.4% of patients in the placebo arm. In the GIST study, fatal hepatic failure occurred in 0.8% of patients in the regorafenib arm. In the HCC study, there was no increase in the incidence of fatal hepatic failure as compared to placebo.

Liver Function Monitoring: Obtain liver function tests (ALT, AST, and bilirubin) before initiation of STIVARGA and monitor at least every 2 weeks during the first 2 months of treatment. Thereafter, monitor monthly or more frequently as clinically indicated. Monitor liver function tests weekly in patients experiencing elevated liver function tests until improvement to less than 3 times the ULN or baseline. For patients who develop unexplained lethargy or changes in mental status, measure ammonia level and initiate appropriate clinical management.

Temporarily hold and then reduce or permanently discontinue STIVARGA depending on the severity and persistence of hepatotoxicity as manifested by elevated liver function tests or hepatocellular necrosis. If hyperammonemic encephalopathy is confirmed, withhold and consider permanent discontinuation of STIVARGA.

Infections: STIVARGA caused an increased risk of infections. The overall incidence of infection (Grades 1-5) was higher (32% vs 17%) in 1142 STIVARGA-treated patients as compared to the control arm in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. The incidence of Grade 3 or greater infections in STIVARGA-treated patients was 9%. The most common infections were urinary tract infections (5.7%), nasopharyngitis (4.0%), mucocutaneous and systemic fungal infections (3.3%), and pneumonia (2.6%). Fatal outcomes caused by infection occurred more often in patients treated with STIVARGA (1.0%) as compared to patients receiving placebo (0.3%); the most common fatal infections were respiratory (0.6% vs 0.2%). Withhold STIVARGA for Grade 3 or 4 infections, or worsening infection of any Grade. Resume STIVARGA at the same dose following resolution of infection.

Hemorrhage: STIVARGA caused an increased incidence of hemorrhage. The overall incidence (Grades 1-5) was 18.2% in 1142 patients treated with STIVARGA vs 9.5% with placebo in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. The incidence of Grade 3 or greater hemorrhage in patients treated with STIVARGA was 3.0%. The incidence of fatal hemorrhagic events was 0.7%, involving the central nervous system or the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or genitourinary tracts. Permanently discontinue STIVARGA in patients with severe or life-threatening hemorrhage and monitor INR levels more frequently in patients receiving warfarin.

Gastrointestinal Perforation or Fistula: Gastrointestinal perforation occurred in 0.6% of 4518 patients treated with STIVARGA across all clinical trials of STIVARGA administered as a single agent; this included 8 fatal events. Gastrointestinal fistula occurred in 0.8% of patients treated with STIVARGA and in 0.2% of patients in the placebo arm across randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Permanently discontinue STIVARGA in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation or fistula.

Dermatological Toxicity: In randomized, placebo-controlled trials, adverse skin reactions occurred in 71.9% of patients in the regorafenib arm and in 25.5% of patients in the placebo arm, including hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) also known as palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES) and severe rash, requiring dose modification. In the randomized, placebo-controlled trials, the overall incidence of HFSR was higher in 1142 STIVARGA-treated patients (53% vs 8%) than in the placebo-treated patients. Most cases of HFSR in STIVARGA-treated patients appeared during the first cycle of treatment. The incidences of Grade 3 HFSR (16% vs <1%), Grade 3 rash (3% vs <1%), serious adverse reactions of erythema multiforme (<0.1% vs 0%), and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (<0.1% vs 0%) were higher in STIVARGA-treated patients. Across all trials, a higher incidence of HFSR was observed in Asian patients treated with STIVARGA (all grades: 72%; Grade 3: 18%). Toxic epidermal necrolysis occurred in 0.02% of 4518 STIVARGA-treated patients across all clinical trials of STIVARGA administered as a single agent. Withhold STIVARGA, reduce the dose, or permanently discontinue depending on the severity and persistence of dermatologic toxicity.

Hypertension: Hypertensive crisis occurred in 0.2% in STIVARGA-treated patients and in none of the patients in placebo arm across all randomized, placebo-controlled trials. STIVARGA caused an increased incidence of hypertension (30% vs 8% in metastatic CRC, 59% vs 27% in GIST, and 31% vs 6% in HCC). The onset of hypertension occurred during the first cycle of treatment in most patients who developed hypertension (67% in randomized, placebo-controlled trials). Do not initiate STIVARGA until blood pressure is adequately controlled. Monitor blood pressure weekly for the first 6 weeks of treatment and then every cycle, or more frequently, as clinically indicated. Temporarily or permanently withhold STIVARGA for severe or uncontrolled hypertension.

Cardiac Ischemia and Infarction: STIVARGA increased the incidence of myocardial ischemia and infarction (0.9% with STIVARGA vs 0.2% with placebo) in randomized placebo-controlled trials. Withhold STIVARGA in patients who develop new or acute onset cardiac ischemia or infarction, and resume only after resolution of acute cardiac ischemic events if the potential benefits outweigh the risks of further cardiac ischemia.

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS): Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS), a syndrome of subcortical vasogenic edema diagnosed by characteristics finding on MRI, occurred in one of 4800 STIVARGA-treated patients across all clinical trials. Perform an evaluation for RPLS in any patient presenting with seizures, severe headache, visual disturbances, confusion, or altered mental function. Discontinue STIVARGA in patients who develop RPLS.

Wound Healing Complications: Impaired wound healing complications can occur in patients who receive drugs that inhibit the VEGF signaling pathway. Therefore, STIVARGA has the potential to adversely affect wound healing. Withhold STIVARGA for at least 2 weeks prior to elective surgery. Do not administer for at least 2 weeks following major surgery and until adequate wound healing. The safety of resumption of STIVARGA after resolution of wound healing complications has not been established.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: STIVARGA can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data on STIVARGA use in pregnant women. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential and males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with STIVARGA and for 2 months after the final dose.

Nursing Mothers: Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from STIVARGA, do not breastfeed during treatment with STIVARGA and for 2 weeks after the final dose.

Most Frequently Observed Adverse Drug Reactions in mCRC (≥30%): The most frequently observed adverse drug reactions (≥30%) in STIVARGA-treated patients vs placebo-treated patients in mCRC, respectively, were: asthenia/fatigue (64% vs 46%), pain (59% vs 48%), decreased appetite and food intake (47% vs 28%), HFSR/PPE (45% vs 7%), diarrhea (43% vs 17%), mucositis (33% vs 5%), weight loss (32% vs 10%), infection (31% vs 17%), hypertension (30% vs 8%), and dysphonia (30% vs 6%).

Most Frequently Observed Adverse Drug Reactions in GIST (≥30%): The most frequently observed adverse drug reactions (≥30%) in STIVARGA-treated patients vs placebo-treated patients in GIST, respectively, were: HFSR/PPE (67% vs 12%), pain (60% vs 55%), hypertension (59% vs 27%), asthenia/fatigue (52% vs 39%), diarrhea (47% vs 9%), mucositis (40% vs 8%), dysphonia (39% vs 9%), infection (32% vs 5%), decreased appetite and food intake (31% vs 21%), and rash (30% vs 3%).

Most Frequently Observed Adverse Drug Reactions in HCC (≥30%): The most frequently observed adverse drug reactions (≥30%) in STIVARGA-treated patients vs placebo-treated patients in HCC, respectively, were: pain (55% vs 44%), HFSR/PPE (51% vs 7%), asthenia/fatigue (42% vs 33%), diarrhea (41% vs 15%), hypertension (31% vs 6%), infection (31% vs 18%), decreased appetite and food intake (31% vs 15%).

For important risk and use information, please see the full Prescribing Information including the Boxed Warning.

(Press release, Bayer, MAY 21, 2026, View Source [SID1234665978])

Merck Announces First Patient Dosed in Phase 3 Study for Investigational Antibody-Drug Conjugate in Colorectal Cancer

On May 21, 2026 Merck, a leading science and technology company, reported that the first patient has been dosed in the Phase 3 PROCEADE-CRC-03 trial (NCT07549412). The study is evaluating precemtabart tocentecan (Precem‑TcT), a potential first‑in‑class investigational anti‑CEACAM5 antibody‑drug conjugate (ADC), for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

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"Leveraging our novel payload‑linker technology, Precem‑TcT is the first CEACAM5‑targeted ADC in clinical studies with an exatecan payload, rationally designed for stability and enhanced cancer cell killing activity," said David Weinreich, MD, MBA, Global Head of R&D and Chief Medical Officer for the Healthcare business of Merck. "The Phase 3 study and the enrollment of the first patient with Precem-TcT build on the Company’s more than 20 years of expertise in colorectal cancer, and highlight our commitment to advancing differentiated ADCs for heavily pretreated patients with limited treatment options."

The PROCEADE-CRC-03 study assesses the efficacy and safety of Precem-TcT, alone or with bevacizumab, in patients with mCRC who are intolerant- or refractory-to, or progressed after, systemic therapies. The PROCEADE-CRC-03 study will be conducted in approximately 165 sites in 20 countries and will recruit approximately 1,020 patients with mCRC.

In Phase 1 (PROCEADE-CRC-01; NCT05464030), Precem-TcT as monotherapy or in combination showed predictable and manageable safety in more than 100 patients with heavily pretreated mCRC. At the recommended dose for Phase 3 development (2.8 mg/kg Q3W; n=29), confirmed objective response rate (cORR) was 20.7% (95% CI: 8.0, 39.7), median PFS was 6.9 months (95% CI: 4.4, 9.5) and median OS was not reached (95% CI: 8.7, NE) after a median follow-up of 13.1 months.

"The PROCEADE-CRC-03 Phase 3 study is designed to address significant unmet needs for patients with metastatic colon cancer whose disease has progressed after standard therapies," said Kanwal P.S. Raghav, MBSS, MD, Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. "The data from the phase 1 study suggested a manageable safety profile for Precem-TcT and encouraging early tumor response in the patients with heavily pre-treated metastatic colorectal cancer. CEACAM5 is largely absent from healthy tissues and is overexpressed in nearly all mCRC cases, supporting a non-selective, universal patient approach, and represents a promising therapeutic target in this setting."

Globally, CRC is the third-most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.1 Merck chose mCRC as the first indication to assess the efficacy and safety of Precem-TcT because ~90% of colorectal cancers overexpress CEACAM5,2 and there is a high unmet clinical need in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, especially among those who progressed on several previous therapies.3,4,5 Patients with advanced colorectal cancer typically face a challenging prognosis, with few options available for those whose disease continues to progress after three or more lines of therapy. Additionally, with progression, response to treatment and prognosis become increasingly worse over time.

Advancing the Future of Cancer Care

At Merck, we strive every day to improve the futures of people living with cancer. Building on our 350-year global heritage as pharma pioneers, we are focusing our most promising science to target cancer’s deepest vulnerabilities, pursuing differentiated molecules to strike cancer at its core. By developing new therapies that can help advance cancer care, we are determined to create a world where more cancer patients will become cancer survivors. Learn more at www.merckgroup.com.

About Precemtabart tocentecan (M9140)

Precemtabart tocentecan is an investigational anti-CEACAM5 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Leveraging the company’s novel linker-payload technology, precemtabart tocentecan is the first CEACAM5 ADC with an exatecan payload, a potent topoisomerase inhibitor (TOP1i), which has been rationally designed for stability in circulation and superior cancer cell killing activity. Beyond the direct effect on the target cell, precemtabart tocentecan has been shown in preclinical research to induce tumor cell death through a bystander effect in which exatecan permeates the cell membrane to neighboring cells, inducing apoptosis (cell death). This bystander effect within the tumor microenvironment may enhance efficacy. Precemtabart tocentecan is currently being evaluated across tumor types with CEACAM5 expression and a high unmet need, including metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), gastric cancer (GC), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

About Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is cancer of the colon or rectum, which often arises from benign polyps that eventually turn cancerous. It is the third most common diagnosed malignancy, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide with approximately 1 in 10 cancer deaths attributed to CRC. Despite new therapies, 5-year survival of stage 4 CRC is <20%. The global burden of CRC has substantially increased over time and is expected to increase by 60% to more than 2.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths by 2030.

(Press release, Merck & Co, MAY 21, 2026, View Source [SID1234665977])

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Approves FoundationOne®CDx as a Companion Diagnostic for TEPMETKO® (tepotinib) to Identify Patients with MET Exon 14 Skipping Alterations in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

On May 21, 2026 Foundation Medicine, Inc., a global, patient-focused precision medicine company, reported that it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for FoundationOneCDx to be used as a companion diagnostic (CDx) for TEPMETKO (tepotinib) developed by EMD Serono, the healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the U.S. and Canada. TEPMETKO received accelerated approval from the FDA in February 2021 and traditional approval in February 2024 for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) exon 14 skipping alterations (METex14).1

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METex14 is found in 3-4% of NSCLC cases2 and is commonly associated with advanced disease and a poor prognosis.3 In November 2024, through Foundation Medicine’s longstanding partnership with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, Foundation Medicine’s high-quality blood-based comprehensive genomic profiling test, FoundationOneLiquid CDx, became the first FDA-approved companion diagnostic to identify patients who may be eligible for TEPMETKO.

FoundationOne CDx as a companion diagnostic for this therapy marks the company’s first approval leveraging its real-world data-powered CDx offering, a service that supports drug and diagnostic label expansion by supplementing clinical trials with expertly curated real-world evidence and integrated regulatory support. Drawing on data from over 150,000 patients in the Flatiron Health-Foundation Medicine Clinico-genomic Database (CGDB), Foundation Medicine is well-positioned to generate relevant and harmonized real-world data (RWD) cohorts reducing the need for incremental patient enrollment while maintaining the rigor required for regulatory use in companion diagnostic projects.

Foundation Medicine is the global leader in companion diagnostic indications.4 With today’s approval, it has more than 20 FDA-approved companion diagnostic indications for NSCLC, and over 100 approved companion diagnostic indications in total, the most of any comprehensive genomic profiling company.5

"This approval reinforces the importance of having diverse, high-quality testing options to support healthcare providers in making informed treatment decisions for their patients, regardless of available sample type," said Todd Druley, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer at Foundation Medicine. "This milestone also highlights our commitment to finding novel avenues to enable expanded patient access. In the many cases where samples are depleted and the time needed for a new trial is unfeasible, rigorous, regulatory-aligned real-world evidence can complement pre-existing clinical trial data to help expand the available options for patients."

"Innovation in targeted therapies for lung cancer has helped pave the way for progress in precision medicine, but there is still so much work needed to connect the right patients to the right therapies, and to find new options for patients," said Danielle Hicks, Co-Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Patient Officer at GO2 for Lung Cancer. "We’re excited to see the value that regulatory-grade, real-world data can add to increase agility, while maintaining the highest standards for patient care."

Foundation Medicine is the only company to offer both tissue and blood-based comprehensive genomic profiling tests that are approved by the FDA. Using a tissue sample, the FDA-approved FoundationOne CDx test analyzes more than 300 cancer-related genes in a patient’s tumor.

(Press release, Foundation Medicine, MAY 21, 2026, View Source [SID1234665976])

Obsidian Therapeutics to Present Phase 2 Clinical Data for OBX-115 in Advanced Melanoma in Oral Presentation at 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting

On May 21, 2026 Obsidian Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company harnessing novel protein-regulation technology to develop engineered tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapies, reported positive Phase 2 results in patients with advanced melanoma from the Phase 1/2 Agni-01 multicenter study of OBX-115. These data will be presented in an oral presentation by Allison S. Betof, M.D., Ph.D., FASCO, associate professor of medicine (oncology), Stanford School of Medicine, on Monday, June 1, 2026, at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL.

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OBX-115 is a novel engineered TIL cell therapy armored with pharmacologically regulatable membrane-bound IL15 and designed to deliver an improved, patient-centric treatment regimen. With its potentially reduced treatment burden driven by option for less-invasive core needle biopsy tumor tissue procurement, exclusively low-dose lymphodepletion (LD) compatible with outpatient administration and elimination of IL2 in the treatment regimen, OBX-115, if approved, has the potential to become a meaningful therapeutic option and expand the cell therapy eligible population of patients with advanced or metastatic melanoma.

Oral Presentation Title: OBX-115 engineered tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapy with regulatable membrane-bound IL15 (mbIL15) in patients with advanced melanoma that has progressed on/after immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI): Phase 2 results
Session Title: Oral Abstract Session – Melanoma/Skin Cancers
Abstract: #9507
Location: Grand Ballroom S100bc
Session Date and Time: June 1, 8:00AM-11:00AM CT
Presentation Time: 10:12 AM-10:24 AM CT

Data to be presented are from the single-arm open-label Phase 1/2 Agni-01 multicenter study (NCT06060613) assessing the safety and efficacy of OBX-115 in adult patients with advanced melanoma that has progressed following treatment with ICI. Results from the January 22, 2026 data cutoff include 15 patients treated at the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D), with n=6 from Phase 1 and n=9 from Phase 2.

OBX-115 demonstrated strong efficacy with a 67% objective response rate (ORR) in a difficult-to-treat advanced melanoma patient population

Study conducted in high unmet need melanoma patients, including a majority (93%) who were previously treated with doublet ICI
73% of patients had progression after anti–PD-1 + anti–CTLA-4 doublet therapy, a group with particularly low response rates to subsequent therapy
67% ORR (per RECIST v1.1), including 2 confirmed complete responses (CR) and 8 confirmed partial responses (PR) (compared to 1 CR and 9 PRs in abstract text)
Durable clinical benefit, including 8 of 10 responses ongoing as of the median 4.3 month study follow-up
OBX-115 continues to deliver consistent, favorable safety profile; treatment regimen with low-dose lymphodepletion and no IL2

All patients received low-dose LD, including 4 in the outpatient setting
No dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), treatment-related mortality (TRM), immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) or ICU transfers
Majority of treatment-emergent adverse effects (TEAEs) occurring in ≥20% of patients were Grade 2 or less
Dr. Betof commented, "These data highlight OBX-115’s promising safety and efficacy profile, demonstrating the potential for durable benefit with low rates of major safety signals, including no DLTs, ICU transfer or TRM. The notable reduction in patient treatment burden relative to other therapies, driven by attributes such as core needle biopsy tumor tissue procurement and treatment regimen with outpatient-compatible low-dose lymphodepletion and without IL2, could be very beneficial and broaden the number of cell therapy eligible patients."

"Results from the Agni-01 study, including the 67% ORR, with 80% of responses ongoing as of the median 4.3 month study follow up, further emphasize OBX-115’s potential in advanced melanoma. We are highly encouraged by the anticipated benefit demonstrated in patients with difficult-to-treat advanced melanoma, including patients with disease progression following anti–PD-1 combination exposure," said Parameswaran Hari, M.D., M.S., Chief Medical Officer of Obsidian. "We have been in discussions with the FDA, and after reaching alignment on key design elements including eligibility criteria, clinical trial endpoints and drug product potency assay, plan to pursue a single-arm accelerated approval pathway. We look forward to continuing to advance OBX-115 through the clinic and plan to begin treating patients in the registration-enabling cohort of our multicenter study in mid-2026."

Obsidian is also investigating OBX-115 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the Agni-01 trial. NSCLC Phase 1 data are expected in the first half of 2027.

About OBX-115
Obsidian’s lead investigational cytoTIL15 program, OBX-115, is a novel engineered tumor-derived autologous T cell immunotherapy (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte [TIL] cell therapy) armored with pharmacologically regulatable membrane-bound IL15 (mbIL15). OBX-115 has the potential, if approved, to become a meaningful therapeutic option for patients with advanced or metastatic melanoma and other solid tumors by leveraging the expected benefits of mbIL15 and Obsidian’s proprietary, differentiated manufacturing process designed to enhance persistence, antitumor activity, and clinical safety of TIL cell therapy. Obsidian is investigating OBX-115 in the phase 1/2 Agni-01 multicenter trial in patients with advanced solid tumors (NCT06060613).

(Press release, Obsidian Therapeutics, MAY 21, 2026, View Source [SID1234665975])

A2 Biotherapeutics Presents Safety and Efficacy Data from the EVEREST-2 Clinical Study, Including Update on the First Complete Response to CAR T-Cell Therapy in a Patient with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

On May 21, 2026 A2 Biotherapeutics, Inc. (A2 Bio), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing first-in-class logic-gated therapies for solid tumors, reported the presentation of safety and efficacy data from the ongoing EVEREST-2 clinical study (NCT06051695). The findings, which are being presented in poster presentations during the 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) taking place May 29 – June 2, 2026, in Chicago, include updates on the first reported complete response (CR) in a patient with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) following treatment with A2B694, a logic-gated mesothelin (MSLN)-targeted TmodTM chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) therapy.

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Complete responses have rarely been observed in studies of CAR T-cell therapies for the treatment of solid tumors, and to date none has been reported in patients with lung cancer.1

"We are encouraged by the EVEREST-2 study data being presented during ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2026, including updated results for the first reported complete response to CAR T-cell therapy in a patient with a hard-to-treat case of non-small cell lung cancer. These findings support the potential for logic-gated therapies, such as A2B694, to treat solid tumors. We eagerly await the results from A2B543, the armored version of A2B694, which has the potential for greater potency without compromising safety," said Salman R. Punekar, M.D., assistant professor of medicine, NYU Langone Health, Perlmutter Cancer Center and treating physician of the patient.

EVEREST-2 Study Arm 1: Efficacy and Safety Update for A2B694

As of January 5, 2026, 13 patients were enrolled in phase 1: eight women and five men, with a median age of 59 years; 11 were non-Hispanic White and two were Hispanic/unknown race. Tumor types included ovarian (n = 3), pancreatic (n = 3), NSCLC (n = 1), colorectal (n = 4), gastro-esophageal (n = 1), and mesothelioma (n = 1). A2B694 dose groups were 1×108 (n = 3), 2×108 (n = 4), 4×108 (n = 5), and 6×108 plus low-dose IL-2 (n = 1) cells.

Lymphodepletion prior to administration of A2B694 was well-tolerated by all patients, with expected transient cytopenias. All patients had at least one adverse event; all adverse event terms were reported in one patient each, except for grade 3 neutropenia, which was reported in two patients. One patient had grade 3 ICANS managed with corticosteroids and one patient had grade 1 CRS confounded by IL-2 administration. There were no dose-limiting toxicities or new safety signals after up to 17 months of follow-up. No deaths were attributed to A2B694, and no patient has discontinued the study due to adverse events.

One patient with co-mutated (KRAS G12V/STK11) NSCLC, a subtype associated with resistance to chemoimmunotherapy and poor prognosis, had progressed on standard-of-care first-line treatment of carboplatin, pemetrexed, and pembrolizumab before enrolling in EVEREST-2. At month 3 post-infusion of A2B694, the patient achieved a complete response (CR) per RECIST 1.1 and had a confirmed CR by central review at month 6 as well as a PET-CT scan which showed no evidence of disease. At month 8, the patient had an isolated CNS relapse, with an ongoing non-CNS CR per Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology Brain Metastases (RANO-BM) at month 9. At 15 months, the patient’s CT showed no new findings, and persistence of A2B694 in the blood was confirmed by ddPCR.

EVEREST-2 Study Arm 2: Enrollment Update on A2B543

An additional presentation from the EVEREST-2 study is a trials-in-progress poster about A2B543, a CAR T-cell therapy which uses the same logic-gated construct as A2B694, armored with the addition of a membrane-tethered IL-12 (mem-IL-12) booster.

IL-12 is a potent, pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in inducing antitumor immune responses; however, systemic IL-12 can be prohibitively toxic. In A2B543, expression of the mem-IL-12 cassette is under the control of an NFAT promoter and is induced during antigen engagement or T cell activation. This inducible mem-IL-12 is designed to reduce the toxicity associated with systemic IL-12 while enhancing the long-term potency and persistence of TmodTM. The first A2B543 patient was enrolled to dose level 1 in January 2026, and dose escalation continues. A2B543 has received Fast Track Designation from the FDA.

A third A2 Bio poster presentation during ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2026 describes modules based on IL-12 and other molecules that boost potency and preserve selectivity of TmodTM-based precision cell therapies.

Poster Presentation Details

Abstract Title

Presenting Author

Abstract Number

Poster Board Number

Poster Presentation Date/Time

Poster Session

Initial safety and efficacy of A2B694, a logic-gated mesothelin (MSLN)-targeted Tmod chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy in patients with advanced solid tumors with HLA-A*02 loss of heterozygosity (LOH)

Julian R. Molina, M.D., Ph.D.

Mayo Clinic
Rochester, Minn.

8579

369

Sunday, May 31, 2026

9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT

Lung Cancer—Non- Small Cell Metastatic

A logic-gated chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy with an armored, membrane-tethered IL-12 booster in patients with advanced solid tumors with HLA-A*02 loss of heterozygosity (LOH): EVEREST-2, a Phase 1/2 study

Salman R. Punekar, M.D.

NYU Langone Health
New York

TPS2673

459a

Saturday, May 30, 2026

1:30 PM-4:30 PM CDT

Developmental Therapeutics— Immunotherapy

Influence of onboard, tethered IL-12 on potency of the Tmod NOT gate and selectivity

Jushen Liang

A2 Biotherapeutics
Agoura Hills, Calif.

2562

352

Saturday, May 30, 2026

1:30 PM-4:30 PM CDT

Developmental Therapeutics— Immunotherapy

Full abstracts are available online on the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) website.

About EVEREST-2

The EVEREST-2 master protocol (NCT06051695) is a seamless Phase 1/2 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of A2B694 (Arm 1) and A2B543 (Arm 2), autologous logic-gated investigational cell therapies developed from the A2 Bio proprietary Tmod platform. The Tmod platform provides selective killing of tumor cells and protection of normal cells via a dual-receptor design consisting of an activator that targets tumor cells and a blocker that protects normal cells. A2B694 consists of an activator that targets MSLN and a blocker that targets HLA-A*02. HLA-A*02 is lost in tumor cells and present in normal cells in the eligible patient population. A2B543 contains the same Tmod construct as A2B694 with an added mem-IL-12 booster. The EVEREST-2 study is recruiting patients with colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and other solid tumors that express MSLN and have lost HLA-A*02 expression.

About the Tmod Platform

Invented at A2 Bio, the TmodTM platform is a precision-targeting cellular system, designed with logic-gate technology to enable immune cells to unequivocally differentiate tumors from normal tissues. The system consists of activator and blocker receptors. The activator recognizes antigens on tumor cells and triggers their destruction, while the blocker recognizes antigens on normal cells and protects them. This novel blocker technology enables precise, personalized, and effective T-cell targeting specifically against tumors.

For more information about A2 Bio clinical studies and how to enroll, visit www.a2bioclinicaltrials.com.

(Press release, A2 Biotherapeutics, MAY 21, 2026, View Source [SID1234665974])