Akeso Unveils Promising Results for Cadonilimab Combination Therapy at ELCC 2026

Akeso Unveils Promising Results for Cadonilimab Combination Therapy at ELCC 2026



On April 6, 2026, Akeso, Inc. shared remarkable findings at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC 2026), showcasing updated data from their Phase Ib/II study of cadonilimab in combination with anlotinib and docetaxel. This multicenter trial focused on patients suffering from locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who had previously shown resistance to PD-(L)1 inhibitors.

Cadonilimab: A Pioneer in Cancer Immunotherapy


Cadonilimab represents a groundbreaking advancement in cancer treatment as the world’s first approved bispecific antibody for immunotherapy. Since receiving market approval in 2022, it has consistently demonstrated its efficacy in various patient groups, regardless of PD-L1 expression levels. This robust performance marks a significant leap in addressing significant clinical needs and earning commendations from healthcare professionals and patients alike.

The results presented at ELCC 2026 demonstrate cadonilimab’s extended reach in treating previously resistant cancers. Earlier studies had already indicated a potential in managing challenging cases, including immunotherapy-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma and gastric cancer. Now, this new data stands as a testament to cadonilimab's broad applicability and safety, reinforcing its role as a preferred option in multi-drug regimens.

Key Findings from the Study


The Phase Ib/II study, characterized by a median follow-up of 21.45 months, produced the following key outcomes:

  • - Progression-Free Survival (PFS): The median PFS across the study population was recorded at 7.0 months, with a notable 6-month PFS rate of 55.7%.
  • - Consistent Benefit Across Subgroups: Patients in the squamous NSCLC subgroup exhibited a median PFS of 7.5 months, while those with PD-L1 TPS ≥1% saw a median PFS of 7.4 months.
  • - Disease Control and Response Durability: An impressive Disease Control Rate (DCR) of 95.2% was observed, with an Objective Response Rate (ORR) of 26.2%, and the median Duration of Response (DoR) reaching 6.0 months. Patients achieving clearance of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) had a median PFS of 9.1 months. Furthermore, ctDNA detection after the first treatment cycle dropped from 1.5% to 0.5%, indicative of the regimen's efficacy on a molecular level.
  • - Safety Profile: The combination therapy of cadonilimab, anlotinib, and docetaxel was well tolerated, with only a 14.0% incidence of grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events and no reported treatment-related deaths.

Akeso’s Vision and Future Path


Founded in 2012, Akeso has emerged as a frontrunner in the biopharmaceutical landscape, focusing on research and development of innovative biological medicines. The organization prides itself on its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs through its diverse range of products, supported by advanced technological platforms in drug development. Currently, Akeso is advancing over 50 innovative compounds through various stages of clinical trials, including 15 bispecific antibodies and ADCs, alongside seven approved medications.

As Akeso continues to push the boundaries of cancer therapy, the implications of cadonilimab’s success could reverberate across the field of oncology, offering hope to patients enduring the complexities of advanced NSCLC. The findings at ELCC 2026 not only affirm cadonilimab’s role as a potent therapeutic option but also highlight Akeso's unwavering commitment to enhancing patient outcomes worldwide. As the biopharmaceutical industry evolves, Akeso stands ready to pioneer the next generation of cancer treatments, leveraging its innovative capabilities to bring forth new solutions for patients in need.

Conclusion


The emerging evidence from Akeso’s cadonilimab combination therapy presents a compelling case for its inclusion in the treatment arsenal against immunotherapy-resistant advanced NSCLC. As research unfolds, Akeso remains at the forefront, dedicated to transforming the therapeutic landscape and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients globally.

Topics Health)

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