Positive Phase 1 Results Unveiled for NTX1088 Combined with Keytruda at ASCO 2026
In an exciting development in the fight against cancer, Nectin Therapeutics has presented encouraging results from their Phase 1a/1b clinical trial involving NTX1088 in conjunction with the renowned immunotherapy Keytruda (pembrolizumab) at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2026, held in Chicago. This promising initial data demonstrates potential for the use of NTX1088, a pioneering monoclonal antibody that targets the poliovirus receptor (CD155), which plays a significant role in tumor-mediated immune suppression.
The clinical study, designated NTX-1088-01 (KEYNOTE E92, NCT05378425), was an open-label, multicenter trial designed to assess NTX1088 both as a standalone treatment and in combination with pembrolizumab for patients suffering from advanced solid tumors. A total of 91 participants were enrolled, showcasing the tolerability of NTX1088, with no dose-limiting toxicities reported.
Absorbing insights from pharmacokinetics and target occupancy, researchers determined that a dose of 1,750 mg would be optimal for further expansion of the study. In an efficacy analysis involving patients receiving the active doses of NTX1088 (1200 and 1750 mg), alongside pembrolizumab (200 mg), significant responses were observed across a spectrum of tumor types. Specifically, patients exhibited confirmed partial responses (PRs) in challenging cancers such as gastric, bladder, and non-small cell lung cancer, as well as squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and melanoma.
Notably, this cohort represents a particularly daunting treatment landscape, with a median of four prior therapies among participants and a high incidence of previous exposure to immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs). Besides the observed partial responses, several patients achieved stable disease, indicating a favorable outcome profile. Most of those showing positive responses continued treatment successfully for up to 24 months, thus reaffirming the potential longevity of NTX1088's efficacy.
Dr. Sarina A. Piha-Paul, who led the study as the Principal Investigator at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, remarked on the significance of these early results. 'The Phase 1 data suggests that NTX1088 combined with pembrolizumab is not only well tolerated but also showcases promising preliminary anti-tumor activity in patients that have been heavily pre-treated with other therapies. This warrants further investigation in Phase 2 trials, particularly targeting less pre-treated cohorts and identifying biomarker-driven groups for enhanced efficacy.'
Founded with the mission to revolutionize cancer treatment, Nectin Therapeutics focuses on harnessing unique insights into Nectin pathways to develop next-generation immuno-oncology therapies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The company is at the forefront of addressing common escape mechanisms seen in existing immunotherapy treatments, with an impressive pipeline of innovative therapies designed to elevate patient response rates across hard-to-treat cancers.
Funded by renowned venture partners including aMoon Fund, Peregrine Ventures and several other notable investors, Nectin Therapeutics is paving the way for significantly improved patient outcomes. Their commitment to harnessing scientific expertise and advancing groundbreaking therapies positions them as leaders in the biotech world as they continue to drive forward critical advancements in cancer treatment.