#Hong Kong #Akeso #Cadonilimab #Ivonescimab

Akeso's 2024 Annual Report: Innovations in Drug Development

Akeso Inc., a prominent biopharmaceutical firm from Hong Kong, recently unveiled its annual report for 2024, showcasing incredible advancements in drug research and clinical development. The company has strategically reinforced its global competitiveness through innovative therapeutics, particularly its bispecific antibodies.

Major Achievements in 2024

Among the standout accomplishments is the approval of ivonescimab, the world's first bispecific antibody integrating immunotherapy and anti-vascular properties, which targets non-small cell lung cancer resistant to EGFR-TKI. Additionally, cadonilimab has made significant strides, now approved for first-line gastric cancer and under review for cervical cancer. These advancements place Akeso at the forefront of oncology treatment, significantly enhancing patient care options.

The highlights from the report include:

• - Groundbreaking Approvals: Ivonescimab demonstrated advantages over pembrolizumab in recent clinical trials, prompting the company to seek priority review for its supplemental new drug application (sNDA).
• - Commercial Growth: Akeso reported a remarkable 25% increase year-on-year, achieving over RMB 2 billion in new drug sales revenue in 2024. The inclusion of cadonilimab and ivonescimab in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) marks a significant milestone, improving drug accessibility for patients.
• - Expanding Clinical Trials: Over 60 clinical trials are ongoing globally, including more than 25 registrational studies, positioning Akeso as a leader in cancer treatment innovation.

Dr. Xia Yu's Vision

Dr. Xia Yu, the visionary Founder and CEO, expressed her excitement about the company's achievements, emphasizing how Akeso's innovative therapies are not only reshaping current treatment paradigms but also meeting unmet medical needs in oncology. The company’s focus on bispecific antibodies positions it uniquely to challenge existing treatments and enhances its portfolio in high-incidence cancers.

Ongoing and Future Development

In 2024, Akeso remained committed to advancing clinical research, with multiple studies assessing ivonescimab against standard treatments in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other cancers. Key Phase III trials compare ivonescimab to pembrolizumab as first-line therapy for PD-L1-positive NSCLC, showcasing promising results. The continuing dual strategy of combining ivonescimab with AK117 (CD47 monoclonal antibody) highlights Akeso’s commitment to enhancing treatment efficacy for patients.

Pipeline Overview

The company continues to invest in diverse research areas beyond oncology, including autoimmune diseases, with new drug applications under review for therapeutic agents such as ebdarokimab and gumokimab. Akeso's multi-faceted pipeline, boasting over 50 innovative assets, focuses on providing solutions where they are most needed.

Entering Global Markets

In alignment with its strategic goals, Akeso has expanded its global outreach through partnerships that leverage its innovations alongside established players in the industry. The collaboration with Summit Therapeutics aims to accelerate clinical trials for ivonescimab across international markets, enhancing the company's footprint and access to novel treatments in various regions.

The Path Forward

Akeso’s focus on building its commercial infrastructure, especially its rapid hospital access plan and scientific leadership initiatives, showcases its commitment to ensuring that its innovative therapies reach patients efficiently. As the company prepares for the upcoming clinical data disclosures and engages with key opinion leaders, the future looks promising. Akeso is dedicated to improving therapy options, aiming for sustainable growth that resonates both commercially and socially.

In conclusion, Akeso's 2024 highlights paint a vibrant picture of innovation, resilience, and commitment to redefining cancer therapy, solidifying its position as a leader in biopharmaceutical advancement. The company's strategies in drug development and commercialization bolster its potential for greater impact on patient care and global oncology landscapes.