Akeso Initiates Phase III Clinical Trial for Ivonescimab in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Akeso, Inc. recently took a significant step in cancer treatment as they officially enrolled their first patient in the Phase III clinical trial for their promising new drug, Ivonescimab. Known as AK112-310/HARMONi-GI2, this trial marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against metastatic pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest forms of cancer with a bleak prognosis for those affected.

Background on Pancreatic Cancer


Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its aggressive nature and high mortality rates. In 2022, around 511,000 people worldwide were diagnosed with this cancer and approximately 467,000 died, illustrating the urgent need for effective treatments. With about 80% of patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage, treatment options have remained largely ineffective, with current survival rates being disheartening. Chemotherapy has been the primary mode of treatment, yet it has achieved only limited success, showcasing a median overall survival (OS) of less than one year.

The Innovation of Ivonescimab


Ivonescimab is a unique bispecific antibody that targets both PD-1 and VEGF, which are often co-expressed in the tumor microenvironment. This innovative approach allows Ivonescimab to obstruct crucial signaling pathways that tumors exploit for growth and resistance. Its dual action enhances immune cell activity against tumors, thus potentially overturning the resistance posed by pancreatic cancer mechanisms.

The trial will also explore the effects of combining Ivonescimab with chemotherapy and ligufalimab, a CD47 monoclonal antibody that promises to boost phagocytosis and inhibit tumor growth. Through this synergistic approach, Akeso aims to breathe hope into an area riddled with treatment failures.

Leadership of the Study


To oversee this promising clinical trial, Akeso has enlisted esteemed co-principal investigators from notable institutions. Professor Yu Xianjun from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, along with Professor Ying Jie'er from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Professor Tai Sheng from Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, are at the forefront of this critical study. Their combined expertise is anticipated to guide the research towards fruitful outcomes.

Akeso's Commitment to Oncology


Akeso’s initiative to launch this extensive Phase III trial underscores its commitment to addressing pressing clinical needs in oncology. With their robust pipeline featuring over 50 innovative assets, Akeso is not solely focused on bringing Ivonescimab to market, but also on redefining treatment paradigms across various challenging diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and metabolic disorders.

Conclusion


As the trial unfolds, the focus will be on the efficacy and safety of Ivonescimab, especially in improving patient survival rates and quality of life. This endeavor not only aims to provide better therapeutic options but also seeks to boost the landscape of immunotherapy specifically designed for pancreatic cancer.

For Akeso, success in this clinical trial could represent a significant leap forward in oncology, potentially transforming treatment strategies for a disease that currently offers minimal hope to patients worldwide. With ongoing advancements and unwavering dedication, Akeso continues to strive towards best-in-class solutions for cancer and beyond.

Topics Health)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.