Imfinzi is the brand name for durvalumab, a programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blocking antibody used across multiple solid tumors. It is indicated in settings including non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, biliary tract cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, endometrial cancer, bladder cancer, and gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancers. The FDA first approved Imfinzi in May 2017.
European biotechs are exploring new immunotherapy targets beyond PD-1/PD-L1, including BTLA, TIGIT, and SLAMF6. Lund University researchers discovered a SLAMF6-mediated immune evasion mechanism. BioNTech and GenMab are advancing next-generation ICIs and bispecific antibodies through strategic partnerships.
Compass Therapeutics reported mixed Phase 2/3 data for tovecimig in biliary tract cancer and plans to meet with the FDA for a BLA discussion. The study met its primary ORR endpoint (17% vs 5%), while PFS and OS data are due late this quarter.
Merck will acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals for $6.7 billion to bolster its cancer pipeline ahead of Keytruda's 2028 patent expiration. The deal gives Merck access to TERN-701, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor for chronic myeloid leukemia. Merck projects over $70 billion in commercial opportunities from its pipeline by the mid-2030s.
Dizal's Phase III trial of Zegfrovy for first-line NSCLC with EGFR exon20ins met its primary endpoint, showing improved progression-free survival. Meanwhile, Immutep halted its Phase III eftilagimod alfa trial, and AstraZeneca's LATIFY trial of ceralasertib plus Imfinzi failed to meet its overall survival endpoint.
AstraZeneca announced a $15 billion investment in Chinese R&D facilities through 2030, elevating China to a global innovation hub, while former China chief Leon Wang faces charges for unlawful data collection, illegal trade, and medical insurance fraud.
AIM ImmunoTech outlined key milestones for its Phase 2 DURIPANC trial evaluating Ampligen combined with durvalumab in metastatic pancreatic cancer, with primary endpoint evaluation expected in December 2026.
| NCT ID | Title | Status | Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCT06304597 |
Evaluating PD-1/PD-L1 in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer by Quantitative Fluorescence Molecular Endoscopy |
NOT_YET_RECRUITING | PHASE1 |
