#China #Suzhou #Innovent #Sintilimab #HUTCHMED

Collaborative Success in Renal Cell Carcinoma Research

Innovent Biologics, Inc. and HUTCHMED have jointly announced significant findings from the FRUSICA-2 Phase 2/3 clinical study. This study explored the combination of sintilimab and fruquintinib as a second-line therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients in China and successfully met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) as evaluated by blinded independent central review.

The Importance of FRUSICA-2 Study

The FRUSICA-2 study is a critical clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of sintilimab in combination with fruquintinib, a selective oral inhibitor. By targeting the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) receptors, this drug can potentially hinder tumor growth. The trial stands out due to its randomized, open-label, and active-controlled design, measuring efficacy against standard therapies such as axitinib and everolimus. Apart from achieving its primary goal, the study also showcased improvements in secondary endpoints like objective response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DoR).

Expert Insights on Treatment Advancement

Prof. Dingwei Ye from Fudan University and co-leading principal investigator of the FRUSICA-2 study praised the advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapy, noting the evolution of treatment landscapes for advanced RCC. He emphasized the ongoing necessity of targeted therapy in China's treatment protocols for advanced RCC. Similarly, Prof. Zhisong He from Peking University expressed optimism regarding the outcomes of the study, highlighting its pivotal role in providing better options for those inadequately responding to earlier treatments.

Dr. Hui Zhou, Innovent's Senior Vice President, revealed the team's excitement about the FRUSICA-2 trial results, underscoring the renewed hope for patients previously treated for advanced RCC. He expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with HUTCHMED to enable regulatory communication and expedite the therapy's availability to patients.

Dr. Michael Shi, HUTCHMED's Chief Medical Officer, stated that the results validate the combination's potential as a promising therapeutic option for patients who have experienced progression after earlier interventions.

Current Status of Lung Cancer Treatments

While sintilimab is already a well-regarded option in treating various cancers, including classic Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-small cell lung cancer, its recent combination with fruquintinib further solidifies its standing. The FDA has approved multiple immune-oncology combinations for advanced RCC, but in China, only a single combination therapy currently exists for patients facing intermediate or poor risk classifications in RCC.

Therefore, this study's results are particularly valuable amid the significant patient need for effective therapies in this domain. The FRUSICA-2 trial serves as a beacon of hope and signifies a substantial step forward in addressing the urgent requirements of RCC treatment.

Understanding Kidney Cancer and Its Challenges

Globally, kidney cancer is a pressing health challenge, with around 435,000 new diagnoses reported in 2022. In China alone, nearly 74,000 people received this diagnosis last year. RCC accounts for about 90% of all kidney tumors. As the body of research grows, the collaboration between Innovent and HUTCHMED is critical, helping to pave the way for innovative therapies that meet the evolving needs in oncology treatment.

Conclusion

The partnership between Innovent and HUTCHMED reflects a commitment to advancing cancer treatment and is critical to expanding the arsenal against advanced renal cell carcinoma. As researchers continue their strides towards novel therapies, patients can anticipate significant shifts in treatment paradigms that prioritize efficacy and accessibility. More detailed results from the FRUSICA-2 study will be shared in forthcoming scientific forums, further elucidating the benefits of this innovative combination therapy.